How These Two-Legged Dogs Inspire Humans Coping with Tears

Every week, Cyrus, Lucky, and Deuce visit Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital in Philadelphia, demonstrating the power of resilience and possibility.

Domenick Scudera is a theater professor at Ursinus College. He has been bringing his therapy dogs to the hospital almost weekly since 2010. His three dogs, all of whom have only two legs, are a living testament to overcoming physical challenges. Their presence offers patients hope and inspiration through the hospital’s Amputee Treatment and Rehabilitation Program.

Scudera shares that the reaction from patients is often the same. They often say, “If he can do it, I can do it.” This message of hope is a common response from those who meet the dogs.

Lucky, who has only front legs, endured a severe accident and complex surgeries. Deuce, with only right-side legs, also went through a severe accident and complex surgeries. They both found their way to Scudera. Cyrus, the elder of the trio, has only back legs. Despite their past hardships, these dogs now bring comfort and encouragement to those facing their own challenges.

Kathleen Liebsch, an occupational therapist at Bryn Mawr, recalls a poignant moment. Deuce visited a patient who had lost a leg and an arm on the same side. The patient felt a deep connection with Deuce, who walks unassisted despite missing his left side. “I’m working towards that, too,” he told Liebsch. “It was pretty inspiring,” she reflects.

The Trio’s Journey

Around 12 years ago, Scudera owned Festus. Festus was a three-legged therapy dog who visited Bryn Mawr and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. As Festus aged, Scudera sought another therapy dog, ideally one with a disability to further inspire patients. He found Cyrus, a terrier mix abandoned in an animal shelter, and adopted him from California.

Scudera, now known as the “two-legged dog dad,” later adopted Lucky from Egypt. Lucky was found on a Cairo street after an accident. Scudera also adopted Deuce from Kentucky. Deuce was discovered with severe injuries and possible shrapnel wounds.

At home, each dog exhibits a distinct personality. Cyrus, the senior dog, enjoys being carried by Scudera and dislikes interruptions. Lucky is full of energy and curiosity, while Deuce is calm and gentle. Despite his condition, Deuce walks effortlessly, often making people unaware of his two-legged status.

Caring for these dogs, Scudera notes, is much like looking after any pet. The main difference is the added care needed for Lucky’s bathroom needs. This is due to his lack of sensation from the waist down.

Scudera finds immense joy in his unconventional pets, saying, “Disabled dogs are challenging to place. But the rewards of having a dog that’s different are tremendous.”

Making a Difference

The dogs not only bring joy to Scudera but also engage with the community. They are often greeted with curiosity and admiration during walks, which fosters social interaction and connection.

Liebsch oversees another therapy dog program at Bryn Mawr. He observes that the dogs’ visits can be the highlight of patients’ days. Being away from their own pets, patients find comfort and happiness in these visits.

One touching moment involved a patient who had lost both legs. The patient embraced one of Scudera’s dogs in a long, silent hug. They found solace in the presence of the animal.

At the children’s hospital, Scudera recalls a visit. A non-verbal child used a talking keyboard to express, “I love Cyrus.” This illustrates the deep emotional impact of these visits.

Scudera’s work has inspired others to adopt dogs with disabilities, demonstrating that even those in need can find loving homes. “I hate to think that there are dogs in need somewhere and no one wants them,” Scudera says. This highlights the profound impact of his and his dogs’ efforts.