In an exclusive interview with georgeprints.co Dog Blog, Dr. Travis Stork, known for his 12-year tenure as a co-host on “The Doctors” and his role as the eighth Bachelor, opens up about his life as a devoted dog lover and proud parent. Dr. Travis and his wife Parris have not only embraced pet adoption, but they’ve also been blessed with the arrival of their first child, Grayson, in June 2020.
We caught up with Dr. Travis to discuss his journey with his rescue dog, Charlie, while debunking some common myths about shelter dogs. Dr. Travis shares his heartwarming perspective on the profound impact that dogs have on their human families and how his shelter dogs have been by his side through thick and thin.
Getting to Know Dr. Travis and Charlie: Many know Dr. Travis Stork from his high-profile television career, but fewer might be aware of his unwavering love for dogs. Dr. Travis and his wife, Parris, have welcomed two shelter pets into their lives over the years. In this heartwarming interview, we delve into their life with their rescue dog, Charlie.
Meet Charlie: Charlie is the beloved 6 ½-year-old rescue dog who has stolen Dr. Travis’s heart. Remarkably, Parris adopted Charlie just before she and Dr. Travis met, rescuing her from an animal shelter in Florida.
The Impact of Charlie: Dr. Travis acknowledges that his life has been touched by two wonderful shelter dogs—Nala, whom he adopted in medical school, and Charlie. Nala was a constant presence during his medical studies and became an inseparable companion through life’s ups and downs. Her unwavering loyalty and friendship left an indelible mark on Dr. Travis’s heart.
Daddy’s Girl: Dr. Travis shares that Charlie is a devoted “daddy’s girl” and often shadows him. Her loyalty and attachment are evident in her everyday behavior.
The Joy of Raising a Shelter Dog: Dr. Travis and his family cherish the daily joys that Charlie brings. With the arrival of their son, Grayson, the bond between Charlie and the child has blossomed. The relationship between them showcases the unique connection and happiness that dogs can offer to a family.
Dispelling Shelter Dog Myths: This interview provides an opportunity to break down stereotypes surrounding shelter dogs, emphasizing that their personalities are as diverse as any other dogs. Each dog is a unique individual, capable of forming strong, loving bonds with their forever families.
Training and Behavioral Changes: Charlie’s protective nature required some early training. Dr. Travis shares the effort involved in helping her adapt and be comfortable around strangers. This process was essential for creating a harmonious environment at home.
Shelter Dogs Are Trainable: Despite the challenges, Dr. Travis underlines that shelter dogs are trainable. Their capacity to learn and adapt is a testament to their resilience. Dr. Travis invested time and effort into improving Charlie’s behavior, and it has transformed her into a playful and friendly companion.
Health Myths About Shelter Dogs: Contrary to misconceptions about shelter dogs having medical issues, Dr. Travis shares that both of his adopted dogs have enjoyed good health. He also points out that, in his experience, mixed-breed shelter dogs tend to have fewer health problems compared to purebred dogs.
Charlie and Grayson: Charlie’s initial reaction to Grayson, the newest family member, was one of indifference. She gradually warmed up to him, highlighting the typical adjustments a dog makes when a new baby joins the family. With patience, understanding, and proper introductions, they developed a loving connection.
Ensuring Safety: Dr. Travis emphasizes that putting a child’s safety first is non-negotiable. While Charlie loves Grayson, they ensure that they are always present when the two are together, offering additional supervision and protection to ensure a secure environment.
Benefits of Dogs and Children: Dr. Travis believes that dogs have a profound impact on children’s lives. They bring joy, companionship, and a sense of playfulness that is unmatched. A dog’s unconditional love and laughter have an immeasurable value in a child’s upbringing.
Going for Walks: To facilitate family walks with both Charlie and Grayson, Dr. Travis uses an adjustable hands-free dog leash, allowing for a safe and enjoyable outing. His hands-free approach enables him to focus on pushing Grayson’s stroller while ensuring Charlie has freedom to roam.
Chronic Pain and the Role of Dogs: Dr. Travis shares his experience with chronic neck and back pain. Despite the wild streak in Charlie’s personality, she hasn’t alleviated his pain directly. He encourages those dealing with chronic pain to remain active, emphasizing the positive impact of regular walks.
Dog Adventures: Dr. Travis and Charlie have had numerous outdoor adventures, visiting dog-friendly beaches and taking on mountain biking trails. These activities have created unforgettable memories, despite Charlie’s occasional fear of the ocean.
Charlie’s Transformation: Dr. Travis recalls how his first shelter dog, Nala, used to accompany him on mountain bike rides, whereas Charlie, due to her energetic nature, needed additional training to adjust to mountain biking.
Dr. Travis Stork’s journey with Charlie is a testament to the transformative power of love, compassion, and family. Their story highlights the profound joy that shelter dogs can bring to their families and serves as a reminder that adopting a shelter pet is a beautiful way to change lives—both human and canine.
