At Barclay Friends, every Friday feels a little brighter thanks to a four-legged visitor whose gentle spirit and treat-loving personality have quickly made her part of the community. Meet Ariel, a 5½-year-old beagle whose journey from countryside hunts to Chief Cuddle Officer is a story worth sharing.
Ariel was born into the sporting world, part of the Ardrossan Beagles in Malvern, Pennsylvania. While her siblings perfected the art of the chase, Ariel had other priorities: making friends and collecting as many treats and head scratches as possible. “She was always more interested in attention than in rabbits,” her companion, Crissy Bowden, Senior Director of Philanthropy, recalls fondly.
Three years ago, Ariel found her forever home in a particularly meaningful way. As Crissy prepared for surgery, adopting Ariel seemed like the perfect way to lift spirits and offer comfort during recovery. Since then, Ariel has stayed true to her nature: an expert in affection, an eager explorer of new faces, and an ambassador for kindness.
Crissy, who joined Barclay Friends in April 2025, recently began bringing Ariel into the office on Fridays, a tradition that quickly took hold. Every visit is filled with meaningful moments with residents, families, and staff. “She instantly brings a smile to everyone who sees her,” shares Crissy. One recent afternoon, Ariel joined several residents in Anne’s Garden. As the group gathered, conversations naturally turned to cherished memories of family pets and faithful four-legged companions from years past. “It was a great way to connect,” says Crissy.
Ariel’s official title, Chief Cuddle Officer, suits her perfectly. Alongside visits from family and staff’s pets, and community partners like Paws for People, Ariel’s presence reinforces Barclay Friends’ inviting, neighborly atmosphere.
Though her sporting days are behind her, Ariel occasionally reunites with her beagle siblings on group walks with Ardrossan Beagle Club, a chance to stretch her legs and reconnect with her roots. Fun fact: Ariel hails from a family of champions — her mother, Beauty, and father, YBob, both earned top honors at the Bryn Mawr Hound Show.
At Barclay Friends, Ariel reminds everyone that the simplest gestures — a wagging tail, a shared memory, or a quiet moment in the garden — can bring comfort and connection. Plans are already in place for Ariel’s continued Friday visits, each one offering a little extra warmth to those who call the community home.
