Emotional Support Dog
(Xerxes)

Once a city dog with a busy life in the hustle and bustle of urban streets, Xerxes has traded in the sounds of honking horns and crowded sidewalks for the peaceful rustle of wind through the trees and the calming ripple of lake water. Now retired from his fast-paced city days, Xerxes has found a new rhythm and purpose as the resident emotional support dog at Achelois Holistic Wellness, nestled in the tranquil beauty of Chisago Lake.

A regal soul with a heart as wide as the lake he now calls home, Xerxes is more than just a comforting presence—he is an intuitive, grounding companion for anyone walking through the doors of Achelois. Whether you're attending a yoga class, sitting down for a healing session, or simply seeking a safe space to rest, Xerxes is often nearby, silently offering his calming energy and unwavering loyalty.

One of Xerxes’ favorite pastimes is sitting on the deck overlooking the lake, where he watches ducks glide across the water with meditative focus. This has become a sort of ritual for him—a way to start and end his days in stillness, embodying the very essence of mindfulness and presence. It’s as if he knows he’s modeling the peace he hopes others can find here too.

But it’s during the more emotionally tender moments that Xerxes truly shines. Many guests at Achelois find that while they're sharing stories, shedding tears, or uncovering long-held emotions, Xerxes will quietly settle beside them, gently laying his head or body across their feet. This act, subtle and sincere, provides a tangible sense of grounding—like an anchor during stormy emotional seas. His warmth reminds us that we’re never alone, that healing doesn’t always need words, and that sometimes, presence is the greatest gift.

Xerxes has an uncanny ability to sense when someone needs extra support. Without training or prompting, he seems to know who’s going through a tough time and shows up just when they need him most. Some say it's intuition; others say it's his deeply empathetic nature. Whatever it is, it’s clear Xerxes brings a unique kind of healing that blends the unconditional love of animals with the intentionality of holistic care