Ginger's Story

Bobbie had wanted an office dog for a number of years, but her previous office situations did not allow that to happen. When she opened 4:13 Center for Change, one of her prayers was for God to send her a perfect dog. Neither of her two dogs at home did not have the qualities needed to fill the job — both are long-haired Chihuahuas, and Lucy loves people too much and Lola fears them with the same measure. Prayers began in earnest, and when Bobbie was asked to join the Executive Board of the SPCA of East Texas, she talked to the volunteers about her qualifications for such a dog...medium sized, not a puppy, female, impeccably house trained, not a biter, licker, barker, jumper or barker...and she got back several comments doubting whether such an animal could exist. But the volunteers at the SPCA promised to keep a watch for such a surrender or stray.

In September 2014, a text came inviting Bobbie to visit with a recent surrender. She got to the adoption center as soon as she could, knowing that any dog coming close to her requirements would likely be adopted immediately. Ginger is a beautiful cocker spaniel who was, at the time, about 2 1/2 years old. She was in perfect health, and her story included death of an owner and others attempting to provide a home until the Thursday before they met. Needless to say, it was love at first sight, and when Bobbie’s husband Phil met Ginger — her already given name — the bond was tightened. They went home together that day and Ginger came to work that Monday, and has been at work ever since.

While Ginger is not a certified therapy animal, her temperament and personality have made her perfect for working in a counseling office. She is the official greeter, unless she’s had a long night of chasing squirrels and spending the next day sleeping off her exploits. She has a heart that feels deeply the pain of some of the office visitors, and she knows when to approach and when to keep her distance. She is a blessing covered in fur, and when people visit, they often say they will come back to see Ginger, God's messenger of unconditional love and acceptance.

When you prepare to visit the Center, please let Bobbie know if you have any issues with dogs, such as fears or allergies. Accommodations can be made to help your visit be worry-free.