There is something especially satisfying about finding work you truly love. People say all the time that when something brings you real joy, it stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling like the thing you would want to do anyway.
Ziggy, a Labrador from Washington, D.C., seems to understand that better than most.
What started as a small part of his everyday routine quickly turned into the highlight of his entire day. Somewhere along the way, this simple habit became the thing he looks forward to most.
Now, every morning starts with the same excitement. Ziggy wakes up full of energy, practically vibrating with anticipation as he waits for the moment he can jump out of the car and race toward his favorite place in the world.
The Best Coworker Anyone Could Ask For
Dominique, a Washington, D.C. resident, runs the K9 Aquatic Center and is the proud owner of Ziggy and his brother, Zeke, also known as the Z-boys.
After caring for several dogs in the past who needed pool therapy, she always dreamed of creating a warm and supportive environment for them and others who needed similar care.
“I built the pools that my dogs were dreaming of, and there is nothing more rewarding than seeing dogs having fun and our senior swimmers becoming young pups again,” Dominique said on the Center’s website.
Her new Labrador, Ziggy, connected with the Center immediately and quickly made it his personal mission to help his mom at work.
In a viral Instagram video, Ziggy appears beside Dominique as her eager “personal assistant.” His dedication to his role has captured the hearts of viewers everywhere.
As soon as the car pulls in, Ziggy bursts out of the door and waits for Dominique to open the building. The moment she unlocks it, he races inside and takes a grand leap straight into the pool.
When he climbs out, he grabs one of the fish toys in his mouth and jumps right back in.
Ziggy’s love for swimming is irresistible, and his videos always bring happiness to people online.
“Sooo much joy in one body. Dogs are the best creatures on earth,” one commenter wrote.
“I can only imagine how excited he got in the car. People get the door!! This is my pool!! Yippee!! Wait…..my toy….fish…I need just the right one….got it! Back to my favorite pool!! Start swimming with my toy…..ALL IS RIGHT WITH THE WORLD!,” another person added.
A third commented, “Everyone should have a happy place like this dog does.”
Ziggy enjoys every moment at the Center. He loves arriving early, splashing around before anyone else, and greeting new visitors as they come in.
Each day, Ziggy meets dogs who visit the Center for therapy and swim sessions. His outgoing personality makes him the perfect host, and he happily welcomes every newcomer.
A Life Filled With Joy
Ziggy truly has the dream life. Even outside of the Aquatic Center, he and Zeke enjoy long walks, outdoor adventures, playful moments, and quality time with Dominique.
Zeke tends to be calm and relaxed, while Ziggy is the family entertainer who brings constant liveliness to their days.
For Dominique, watching her boys thrive is incredibly fulfilling. Their happiness is a reminder that creating the Center was one of the best choices she could have made.
Thank you, Dominique, for dedicating your work to helping dogs heal and enjoy life. And thank you, Ziggy, for brightening everyone’s day with your joy.