Upstate Hospital's beloved Dachsund therapy dog, Lumpi, retires Wednesday with party
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Upstate University Hospital’s beloved Dachsund therapy dog, Lumpi, will retire Wednesday.
Lumpi is a therapy dog who has comforted, supported and calmed thousands of patients—and employees—for a decade at Upstate.
A gathering of well-wishers to thank Lumpi and his owner, Anna Mayerhofer, for their dedicated service will take place at 10 a.m. Wednesday in the lobby of the Upstate Cancer Center located 750 East Adams St.
“Lumpi brings smiles to everyone he meets and has the ability to lessen the anxiety no matter the situation,” Kristin Bruce, director of Volunteer Services at Upstate said. “Lumpi is also beloved for his attire. He comes appropriately dressed to mark any special occasion or holiday.”
Bruce noted that everyday Lumpi has been here, so has his most ardent supporter, Mayerhofer. “We cannot thank Anna enough for sharing Lumpi with us. We will miss Anna and Lumpi.”
His service included work with patients of every age in almost every unit, from cancer units to Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital to the pediatric and adolescent psychiatric unit.
“No matter your situation, Lumpi will be by your side,” Bruce said. “His love is unconditional.”
Lumpi is certified for his hospital service through Paws of CNY. He also has received certification by the American Kennel Club as a Therapy Dog Supreme.
He will spend his retirement lounging on furniture and barking at passers-by.
