Retired on February 8, 2026
Damaris’ final visit with our church family will be this Sunday, February 8th.
The Comfort Dog Ministry at Memorial was a missional community led by Stacy Bretting, Carolyn Meyer, Brenda Davis, & Nathan Engman. Damaris served as a bridge, providing comfort, peace, and hope to people who are hurting and in need. Damaris served as a friend who brought a calming influence, helping people open their hearts and receive help in times of need. When we were invited, our team of handlers and ministry assistants took Damaris to hospitals, schools, nursing homes, service organizations, and, simply, out into the community. Beyond this, we responded in times of crisis in our community and beyond.
After 1,938 visits, 6 deployments, and 9 years of service to Katy and beyond, it’s time to fully retire our girl, Damaris, and her team. Her ownership will officially transfer from Memorial Lutheran Church to her primary caregiver, Carolyn, and Damaris will be her personal pet.
Thank you for all the support you have shown through the years!
Facts About Damaris
- She is a purebred Golden Retriever
- She has passed the AKC Good Citizenship Test
- She completed over 2000 hours of training as a comfort dog and trained daily and weekly prior to retirement.
- She was certified by Lutheran Church Charities
- She was a working dog
- She was NOT a service dog (but she was service-level trained)
- She is now a pet
Damaris’ Bible verse:
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, This is the way; walk in it.” ~ Isaiah 30:21
Thank You
A special thank you to Katy Veterinary Clinic for taking such wonderful care of Damaris and for providing Veterinary services to her.
We also want to thank Suburban Mutt for taking care of Damaris’ grooming at no cost!