When Jamie Sprague walks into a room with her 6-year-old bullmastiff, Louise Cheese, hearts instantly soften. Whether it’s a hospital corridor, a school library, or a yoga class for children impacted by cancer, this “gentle giant” is there to bring comfort, connection, and just the right amount of slobbery love.
But Louise Cheese’s journey into therapy dog work didn’t happen by chance—it was born from a deeply personal experience.
A Personal Inspiration
Jamie’s inspiration came years ago, during an emotional and uncertain time in her life. Both of her sons were born prematurely, and between the two of them, the family spent nine weeks in the NICU at Maine Medical Center. During those tense, exhausting days, one of the few bright moments came in the form of therapy dog visits.
“I had two dogs at home that I missed terribly. When therapy dogs visited the NICU, it brought a sense of peace and joy I didn’t know I needed. That experience stuck with me, and I always knew I wanted to give that same comfort to others someday,” Jamie says.
Photo credit: Jamie Sprague
A Natural Fit for Therapy Work
From the moment she brought Louise Cheese home, Jamie knew there was something special about her. “Her breed—bullmastiff—is known for being loyal, affectionate, and brave. But what really stood out was how drawn she was to people. From the beginning, she would just light up when people came near, and they’d light up right back.”
Louise’s sweet and social nature made her a natural candidate for therapy work. Despite her size, she’s a softie—more “scaredy cat” than fierce guardian. She’s also, as Jamie affectionately describes, a “social butterfly who loves chin scratches from just about anyone.”
What’s in a Name?
Louise’s name is just as charming as her personality. Jamie loved the character Louise Belcher from Bob’s Burgers, and when it came time to pick a middle name, she let her young sons—then ages 5 and 8—make the call. The result? Louise Cheese.
“It rhymed. It stuck. And yes, she does like cheese—though kale is actually her favorite treat!”
Becoming a Certified Therapy Team
Jamie and Louise are a registered therapy dog team through Pet Partners, a respected national organization. The certification process included online training and a test for Jamie, plus an in-person evaluation for the team.
Louise worked her way up from basic puppy training to passing both the AKC Canine Good Citizen and Canine Good Citizen Advanced tests. Before their evaluation, the pair practiced in public spaces to prepare.
“With Pet Partners, we have to be reevaluated every two years to keep our registration current,” Jamie explains.
Most recently, Louise earned the AKC Therapy Dog Excellent title in recognition of completing 200 therapy visits!
Spreading Comfort in the Community
Today, Louise Cheese regularly visits a variety of local organizations, including:
• Narragansett Elementary School
• Great Falls Elementary School
• Baxter Memorial Library
• IDEXX Laboratories
• Children’s Museum & Theatre of Portland
But one of the most meaningful partnerships is with the Dempsey Center, which supports people impacted by cancer.
“My mother-in-law passed away from cancer four years ago. She never had the chance to benefit from services like those offered at the Dempsey Center. Volunteering there has been part of my own healing process,” Jamie says.
Louise Cheese also participates in Doga, a yoga class for children impacted by cancer. True to form, she proudly demonstrates her version of “downward dog” during class.
Reading, Smiles, and Lasting Bonds
One of Louise’s favorite activities is being read to by children. Through the Dogs Dig Reading program at Baxter Memorial Library and weekly visits to Narragansett Elementary, Louise helps young readers build confidence.
“There’s one student in particular who told me she doesn’t always look forward to coming to school—except on Mondays, because she knows she’ll see Louise Cheese. Their bond has helped her grow into a confident, kind leader at school. It’s been amazing to witness.”
Part of the Dempsey Challenge
This year marks Louise Cheese’s fourth Dempsey Challenge. She doesn’t participate in the walk itself, but she and Jamie proudly serve as greeters alongside other Dempsey Dogs—bringing smiles, love, and a little calm to everyone they meet.
A Two-Way Gift
Jamie never expected the depth of connection therapy dog work would bring into her own life. “I thought this was something we’d do for others—but I’ve gained so much, too. I’ve built real friendships with people we visit, and I look forward to seeing them just as much as they look forward to seeing Louise Cheese.”
Advice for Others
To anyone considering therapy dog work with their own pup, Jamie says:
“It’s more rewarding than you can ever imagine. If your dog has the right temperament, go for it. You’ll both be better for it.”