Rescue Dog Cheddar Brings Comfort as Therapy Dog

Mini Aussie overcomes abuse to become a beloved healer at long-term care facility

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Cheddar, a 28-pound mini Australian shepherd, was rescued from a situation of abuse as a puppy. But his life was transformed when he was adopted by longtime animal lover Julie Keeler Bourbon. Now, Cheddar works as a therapy dog, bringing comfort and joy to residents at a long-term care facility in Mankato, Minnesota each week.

Why it matters

Cheddar's story highlights the power of rescue animals to overcome trauma and find new purpose in life. As a therapy dog, Cheddar demonstrates how rescued pets can make a profound difference in the lives of others, especially those in need of comfort and companionship.

The details

After being rescued from an abusive situation as a puppy, Cheddar was adopted by Julie Keeler Bourbon, who recognized the resilience in the mini Aussie despite his painful past. Cheddar now visits a long-term care facility in Mankato each week, where he offers comfort, companionship and a gentle, loving presence to the residents. Julie has witnessed firsthand how Cheddar's intuitive approach to each person he meets has a transformative effect.

  • Cheddar was rescued from an abusive situation as a puppy.
  • Cheddar was adopted by Julie Keeler Bourbon.
  • Cheddar now visits a long-term care facility in Mankato each week.

The players

Cheddar

A 28-pound mini Australian shepherd who was rescued from an abusive situation as a puppy and now works as a therapy dog, bringing comfort and joy to residents at a long-term care facility.

Julie Keeler Bourbon

A longtime animal lover who adopted Cheddar and has witnessed firsthand the transformative effect he has on the residents he visits at the long-term care facility.

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What they’re saying

“There's something about him -he just has a way of connecting with people, especially those who need it most. He's not just a dog; he's a healer, and I'm so grateful for the way he's changed my life and the lives of others.”

— Julie Keeler Bourbon, Cheddar's owner (The Superior Express)

The takeaway

Cheddar's story is a powerful testament to the resilience of rescue animals and the profound impact they can have on the lives of others. His transformation from an abused puppy to a beloved therapy dog who brings comfort and joy to those in need serves as an inspiring example of the healing power of love and second chances.