Chris Dierickx and his wife Wendi (not pictured), owners of Straub's Funeral Home & Columbia River Cremation, in Camas, recently adopted "Cooper" from the Humane Society of Southwest Washington. The 5-year-old golden Labrador retriever has helped comfort and soothe several individuals who have made arrangements for family members. "I think Cooper takes the edge off and allows people to relax a bit more when they come in," Chris said. Dawn Feldhaus/Post-Record

The newest addition to the staff at Straub's Funeral Home & Columbia River Cremation, in Camas, gets "paid" with dog treats, belly rubs and games of fetch.