A very special therapy dog bringing joy to hospital patients around Melbourne is proving that a dog certainly is man's best friend. Ralf the Giant Schnauzer was adopted  in 2005 by the Lovick family, who quickly realised that their new dog was much more than just a pet. The gentle giant has been visiting sick children and aged-care homes for nearly ten years, bringing his special brand of magic to the people who need it most. The Lovick family adopted Ralf in 2005- from top left: Caroline, Alice, Rebecca, Sam, Ralf, Imogen, Edward and Ivy (Ralf's daughter) 'Everybody knows what it feels like to have a bad day. Ralf is happy to be your friend and have a hug. He thinks you’re beautiful and perfect exactly the way you are,' Ralf's owner Caroline Lovick, told Daily Mail Australia.
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Ralf the Giant Schnauzer was adopted in 2005 by the Lovick family
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His owner Caroline was told that he would be the perfect therapy dog
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For ten years, she and Ralf have visited aged care homes and hospitals
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He has been a regular at the Melbourne Royal Children's Hospital  for years
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Ralf has brought joy and comfort to those who need it most
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The biography of his life, RALF, is out now from Allen and Unwin
The @placeholder's often have to remind themselves that their beloved family member is a dog, as he behaves in a way that is more human than they could have ever expected.
After six and a half years visiting the manor and building friendships with the staff and residents, Caroline and @placeholder decided it was time to move on.