With her joyful nature and distinctive role, Rover, a golden retriever and Chief Dog Officer on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, delighted both passengers and staff. Her presence gives everyone on board solace, happiness, and lifelong memories.
Rover, a golden retriever who is almost two years old, is not your typical cruise ship guest. As the Chief Dog Officer aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas, Rover has grown to be a cherished crew member who makes both visitors and employees happy.
As Rover picks up new skills like rolling over and tidying up her toys, her day begins with playtime, instruction, and a little mischief. In order to balance her hectic schedule of guest meet-and-greets, Rover’s caretaker, Maya Marques Trindade, makes sure she receives enough exercise and sleep. Rover’s vivacious nature makes everyone’s day, whether she’s wagging her tail or giving high fives.
Trindade says, “She makes such a difference in people’s lives,” describing touching instances when visitors who were mourning the death of their own pets found comfort in Rover’s kind presence. After Rover shook her hand, a small girl who was grieving for her dog turned her tears into laughs.
There is more to Rover’s duty than amusement. Her training emphasizes composure and obedience, particularly around youngsters, and was created under the direction of animal welfare specialists. Her biggest gift is the delight she offers, even if she enjoys swimming and playing ball on port calls like Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Royal Caribbean intends to broaden this endearing program by adding Sailor, another canine cop, to Star of the Seas. Until then, Rover keeps demonstrating that a dog’s uncomplicated devotion can have the greatest influence, even on the biggest cruise ship in the world.
