Meet Parker - "Public Relations Ambassador"

I have a job. How did I get a job? I didn’t even apply for one. I went for a ride in a truck one day and I ended up with a job. My days used to be filled with riding in the truck, running in the dirt and keeping my owner happy. What a charmed life.

Now, I get up every morning, way before I have any inclination to do so and head to the Best Western Wesley Inn in Gig Harbor, Washington. After making my usual rounds to the grassy area, I am off to greet whoever is in the lobby in hopes of some extra string cheese or bites of muffin. If the guests aren’t up yet, I will go back behind the front desk for a little “cat nap” until there is a greater possibility of finding some pats on the head or treats.

Some think it is a miracle that I am still here to have a job. During my relatively short life of 42 dog years, that would be six in human, I have been run over twice and survived. I weigh in at less than ten pounds, so you can imagine how tall I am. Apparently, I have a will to survive that is incredible. Many have said that I was born for a purpose. I am not exactly sure what that means, but if it gets me more cheese, that works for me.

The days at the hotel are spent greeting our guests from the minute they walk in the door. I have been told how important that is to make them feel at home. I smile and get close and wag my tail so they can see how happy I am to have them here. Frequently, they bend down to pet me or pick me up. Who doesn’t like a little extra love? My best days are when they bring someone for me to play with like their children, or their own dogs. I have made friends from around the world and some come back just to see me. I remember one time a boy named Bobby had recently lost his dog. It broke his heart so that he couldn’t bear to have another pet. After spending the weekend with me at the hotel, he was ready to find love again with another dog. I say it’s all in a day’s work.

My job has expanded over the last few months. I have become a bit of a celebrity and now they make Little Parkers that look just like me. Now our guests can take one home for a small donation to the Homestead, a home in progress for local foster children. Now I know, there really is a purpose for my life. Please contact me at the Best Western Wesley Inn if I can help you make a reservation or you want to know more about my Little Parker Buddies. I need to get back to work. It’s 3:00pm and another round of guests are checking in. It’s the best time of the day, besides breakfast!