Poodle Logs Long Hours As Office Helper

From the Associated Press comes an article that appeared in newspapers throughout the US on October 8, 2003. The article is about a 10-year-old, 6-pound toy poodle named Einstein. What is newsworthy about this dog is that for the past 10 years Einstein has been in charge of delivering patient records to the front desk at the Chiropractic Life Center north of Kansas City.

All it takes is a tap on the desk with files, and Einstein takes off to retrieve some files, short ears flapping and collar jangling. The poodle then stands on his hind legs and opens his mouth, ready to grab a chart. He then delivers it to the front desk. In addition to his gopher responsibility, he also comes running to greet patients when he hears the front door open. But he only stops for a quick pat on the head, because he is working.

Dr. Bruce Rippee, the clinic's owner commented, "He adds a measure of peace to the office. People come in here in pain, and then they see this cute fluffy dog, and that makes them feel better." Dr. Rippee said Einstein had no training, "It all started when I dropped a piece of mail, and he picked it up." He also warned, "Want to see him get mad? Watch what he does when I don't hand him the file."

Einstein has been working like a dog for 10 years without a raise or promotion - with only a tiny bit of a Beggin' Strip every few minutes.