Mahlah’s comfort reaches out in Las Vegas
Iroquois County has reached out to make its mark in Las Vegas in the aftermath of the deadliest shooting in U.S. history. And the help comes from Mahlah—the comfort dog from Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford.
The Rev. Karl Gibbs and comfort dog, Mahlah, are spending time away from the home-base to comfort those people trying to get their lives back together following the deadly shooting at the Mandalay Bay Resort in Vegas.
Mahlah is Our Savior Lutheran Church’s 2-year-old golden retriever, especially trained to administer comfort to those afflicted. Mahlah is among about 100 Lutheran Church Charities' K-9 comfort dogs who are in Nevada. The dogs come from 22 states.
Mahlah and her canine friends have made national news thru the Lutheran Network.
Rev. Gibbs says “just a hug and petting the dog allows those afflicted by the pain and sorrow to walk away smiling again. “It’s a wonderful fulfilling feeling to bring back comfort and peace to many of the people trying to put their lives back together, Gibbs said.
The goodwill visit by the canines will continues as long as needed.
Mahlah works year-round, Gibbs said, often visiting hospitals, nursing homes and schools to bring cheer after hardships. It was guest-speaker at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Milford that convinced Our Savior parish members to get involved after the Sandy Hook school shooting.
The Rev. Gibbs says, “so many stories stir emotions, stories of heroism, from responding law enforcement, fire personnel, and just everyday people, strangers helping strangers."
Gibbs said Mahlah's nonverbal communication can help draw out emotions and stories from humans.
Gibbs is quick to point out, "This is about those who serve. It shows me that in the midst of such evil, good still wins out.”
Mahlah and her ministry is all about donations. The Rev Gibbs says Mahlah welcomes all donations and she’s happy to write back. Reach Mahlah at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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