1. What is your official job title at Winterberry, and how long have you been with Winterberry?

I’m Riley, Winterberry’s Chief Happiness Officer and Head of Treat Inspection! I’m a five-year-old mini goldendoodle, and my length of service is measured in tail wags rather than years. Human Resources is still trying to calculate it.

2. Do you bring a human to work with you? If yes, tell us a bit about them.

Yes! I bring my mom, Krysta, Winterberry’s Operations Manager. She helps keep the practice running smoothly and takes care of a whole lot of people. I take care of her by reminding her to stop working occasionally and pet me. We’re a very effective management team.

3. What’s your favourite part of coming to work?

You expect me to choose? Greeting patients and visiting the staff are wonderful, but supervising snack breaks is a serious professional responsibility. If I hear a wrapper, I report for duty immediately. I expect Auntie Erin’s lap to be available for a quick hello when I arrive, and I always ensure that Nurse Dawn does not forget her treats at home. Her bag is very easy to find. I really love when I get to see the patients in the waiting room, but my mom won’t let me unless patients specifically ask for me. So if you want to pet me, just ask!! I would prefer to say hello to every single person, but I know some people aren’t feeling well, or are a bit afraid of dogs.

4. Do you have any special talents or responsibilities that make you an important member of the Winterberry team?

I specialize in making people smile, accepting unlimited pets, and knowing exactly when someone could use a furry little visitor. I’m also excellent at looking underfed immediately after eating. That takes talent. The team in the lunch room has witnessed my talents!

5. When you’re off duty, what do you like to do for fun?

My ideal day includes a good walk, some playtime, plenty of cuddles, and a nap that turns into another nap. I also like keeping my humans company—even when they go into rooms they apparently wanted to visit alone.

6. We hear you’re dressing up for Halloween! What’s your costume this year, and are you expecting treats in exchange for showing it off?

I’m dressing up as a hot dog because Mom bought ketchup and mustard costumes for the cats. Apparently, I’m the main course and they’re my emotional support condiments. They’re both pretty salty about it, but I’m frankly thrilled. And yes, I expect treats—putting up with those two deserves more than minimum wag.