Major Rumayor and Lexy

Transcription

I N T E R A C T I O N S
M A G A Z I N E
Stories of lives improved by positive human & animal interactions.
Major Rumayor
and Lexy
Serving Our Country
at Fort Bragg
Around The Country
The Animals of Pet Partners
Xander
WINTER 2015
Thank You
Pet Partners is required to file financial
information with several states. Ten of those
states will provide copies to their residents
upon request:
California: Pet Partners is registered as ‘Pet
Partners Therapy Animals’ in the state of
California.
Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION
MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF
CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLLFREE, WITHIN THE STATE, 1-800-HELP-FLA.
REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY
THE STATE. CH3226.
Maryland: For the cost of copies and postage,
Office of the Secretary of State, State House,
Annapolis, MD 21401.
Mississippi: The official registration and
financial information of Pet Partners may
be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary
of State’s office by calling 1-888-236-6167.
Registration by the Secretary of State does not
imply endorsement.
Missouri: Pet Partners is registered as ‘Pet
Partners Nonprofit Corporation’ in the state of
Missouri.
New Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE
ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS
CHARITABLE SOLICITATION and the percentage of contributions received by the charity
during the last reporting period that were
dedicated to the charitable purpose MAY BE
OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY BY CALLING
973-504-6215 and is available on the internet at
www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ocp.htm#charity.
REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT.
New York: Office of the Attorney General,
Department of Law, Charities Bureau, 120
Broadway, New York, NY 10271.
North Carolina: Financial information about
this organization and a copy of its license are
available from the State Solicitation Licensing
Branch at 1-888-830-4989. The license is not an
endorsement by the state. Pet Partners is registered as ‘Pet Partners Nonprofit Corporation’
in North Carolina.
North Dakota: Pet Partners is registered as ‘Pet
Partners Therapy Animals’ in North Dakota.
Pennsylvania: The official registration and
financial information of Pet Partners may be
obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of
State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania,
1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply
endorsement.
Virginia: State Division of Consumer Affairs,
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, PO Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218.
Washington: Charities Division, Office of the
Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504-0422, 1-800-332-4483.
West Virginia: Residents may obtain a
summary of the registration and financial
documents from the Secretary of State, State
Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305.
REGISTRATION WITH A STATE AGENCY DOES
NOT CONSTITUTE OR IMPLY ENDORSEMENT,
APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THAT
STATE.
BOARD LIST
Dr. Mary Craig, DVM, MBA, Chair
Lynnette Eastlake, MBA, Vice Chair
Raquel Lackey, CPA, CMA, CFE, Treasurer
Jackie Gunby, Secretary
Jack Barron Jr.
Chad Baigini
Winona Burgess, DVM, CPA, MBA
Stacey Evans
Dr. Aubrey Fine, EdD
Ryan Granard
Dr. Rebecca A. Johnson, PhD, RN, FAAN, FNAP
Diana Kiriakides
Derrick Kraemer
Mike Mossholder
Laird Pisto
Michael Sapp
Dr. Philip Tedeschi, MSSW
Brenda Bax, Ex-Officio
and Happy Holidays
p.2
HONORARY BOARD LIST
Sophie Engelhard Craighead, Chair
Marty Becker, DVM
Nan Bush
Kathy Vignos Folson
Carol and Scott Glenn
Linda Hackett
Chandi Heffner
Karen LeFrak
Carolynn D. Loacker
Elise B. Lufkin
William McCulloch, DVM
Mary Tyler Moore
Victoria Newhouse
Jeannie Nordstrom
Annette de la Renta
Jonah Shacknai
Sarah W. Sweatt
Irving Taylor, MD
Dave Underriner
Bruce Weber
Andrew Weil, MD
Betty White
Joanne Woodward
PUBLICATION CREDITS
Editor: Glen Miller
Contributors: Kris Betker, Dr. Aubrey Fine, SPC
Taryn Hagerman, Dr. Marguerite O’Haire,
Paula Scott, Maj. Christina Rumayor
Graphic Design: Wolken Communica
Cover Photography: Sgt. William Reinier
CONTENTS
Major Rumayor and Lexy 2
The Animals of Pet Parners
10
How to Help
15
The Delta Giving Society
19
Xander24
Departments
Around The Country
4
Saying Goodbye
16
Honor and Memorial Donations
20
When I joined the Pet Partners team as President and CEO this
past spring, I had no idea what a gift it would be. As a life-long
animal lover, I knew what a difference and comfort animals can
make for those who may need a little extra support. Whether it was
a caring handler, a friendly lick, a gentle paw, knowing eye contact
or the ability to caress fur or feathers, seeing so many Pet Partners
teams in action has been a life-changing experience.
From my first encounter with Bridget Seitzinger & Sage, Linda
Wandrick & Muffin, and Rhonda Kuebler & Diesel – a trio of Pet
Partners teams visiting a hospital in Virginia, to the dozens of evaluators I just met in October in Los Angeles at the Team Evaluator
Symposium, the dedication and commitment I see from so many is
astonishing. Our sincere thanks goes to the Mill River Foundation
for generously supporting the Team Evaluator Symposium, a forum
to discuss how Pet Partners maintains the gold standard when it
comes to our work together.
In 2015, the board of directors, the staff and I look forward to
bringing our teams the best Pet Partners possible. Our goal is not
only to improve what we do every day but enhance our offerings
as the best in the world for Animal-Assisted Therapy. In early 2015,
we look forward to introducing our new website to better serve
teams, facilities and those who need our help. We plan to expand
opportunities for more teams to serve in airports, increase outreach
and advocacy for volunteers without animals, provide additional
school campus stress reduction events and evaluate how Pet Partners teams can support individuals in the criminal justice system.
Our curriculum is expanding and our commitment to the highest
quality training and continued education is strengthening. We want
our teams to have the best tools possible when it comes to serving
a very diverse population that includes children, adults, people with
special needs, veterans and those approaching end of life. It is an
exciting time to be part of the Pet Partners movement. We are so
grateful to the more 11,000 teams out there in hospitals, hospices,
schools, VA Centers and wherever we are needed, every single day
and one million times a year. Thank you for all that you do to touch
lives and improve health. You truly make the world a better place.
Catherine “Annie” Magnant
President and CEO, Pet Partners
Pet Partners
425.679.5500
info@petpartners.org
www.petpartners.org
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Major Rumayor and Lexy
Serving our Country at Fort Bragg
Photography: Sgt. William Reinier
It was a frigid North Carolina morning when Lt. Col. Lexy joined the
82nd Airborne Division Paratroopers lining up for a four-mile run. At
6 a.m. only Lexy seemed oblivious to the chill in the air. She had an
advantage: under her Army combat uniform, the German Shepherd
was covered in fur.
Lexy is Fort Bragg’s first therapy dog. That morning, the fourlegged officer happily greeted many of the 15,000 paratroopers as
they gathered to celebrate Memorial Day.
Maj. Christina Rumayor, the 82nd Airborne Division’s psychiatrist
and Lexy’s trainer, owner, and handler, says Animal-Assisted
Therapy can play a huge role in easing the counseling process for
soldiers who are experiencing stress. Rumayor and Lexy are a
registered Pet Partners team.
“Therapy is a hard place to walk into,” Rumayor said. “It’s very
scary a lot of times, and there’s stigma attached to it. Soldiers may
initially be afraid or anxious, but when they see a therapy dog there,
their first thought is, ‘Well, this can’t be such a bad place.’”
Relaxation is crucial to a soldier’s mental health, and Lexy has
been trained to recognize and respond to elevated anxiety levels.
When psychotherapy sessions bring out raw emotion, Lexy is able
to fill a role that doctors can’t—providing physical reassurance.
Lexy and other therapy dogs can offer a comforting touch, pat or
hug in a completely appropriate way, which in turn, can help calm a
patient and make it easier to focus during therapy sessions.
“If Lexy notices that a person is becoming more anxious or
upset, she will often move to them so they can pet her, which is
extremely calming for many people,” Rumayor said. “Her purpose
in the therapy sessions is very specific to what the patient needs.”
Staff Sgt. Dennis Swols, Warrior Transition Unit, suffered for
years with debilitating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Since joining
the Army in 1998 as an infantryman, Swols deployed seven times;
five of those deployments were to Iraq and Afghanistan.
During a year of treatment with Rumayor and Lexy, Swols said
that simply having the dog in the room has helped him put his
struggles with PTSD into words during therapy.
“Without a doubt Lexy has made a difference,” he said. “It’s
very easy with Lexy and Maj. Rumayor.”
When his doctor initially referred him to work with Lexy,
Swols was openly skeptical, but it didn’t take long for Lexy’s calm
disposition and attentiveness to win him over.
“There is so much help out there for PTSD, and you just have
to find what works for you,” he said. “Lexy was there, and she
helped. It worked for me.”
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The team has even visited the Child Development Center
on base to educate young children about responsible dog care,
and also to help kids who may be afraid of dogs become more
comfortable around them.
Rumayor saw the value in Animal-Assisted Therapy years ago,
between Rumayor and Lexy spans half a decade.
Lexy was one of several German Shepherd puppies Rumayor
visited while stationed in Hawaii. At only eight weeks old, she
was already a very curious and gentle puppy; both traits Rumayor
wanted in a companion. From that day on, the pair were family.
“Therapy is a hard place
to walk into ... It’s very
scary a lot of times, and
there’s stigma attached to
it. Soldiers may initially
be afraid or anxious, but
when they see a therapy
dog there, their first
thought is ‘well, this can’t
be such a bad place.’”
and wrote a policy in 2011 requesting to initiate the Animal-Assisted
Therapy Program through Womack Army Medical Center at Fort
Bragg. At that time, Lexy was already registered through the North
Carolina branch of Pet Partners as a therapy dog. In 2013, the policy
passed.
“Treatment with Lexy and other therapy dogs is a great ancillary
treatment to give to soldiers as a way to get better,” she said. “The
important part is giving great care to our paratroopers and soldiers.”
Though the Fort Bragg program is relatively new, the bond
However, Rumayor also saw a role for Lexy within her larger
family: the Army. She was convinced Lexy could help bring
encouragement, joy and a sense of normalcy for soldiers.
“I think for many of them, she brings pieces of home that they
miss when they live far away,” Rumayor said. “Dogs have an
unconditional type of love that also brings them comfort. They don’t
know what your rank is, and they don’t care.”
For as hard as Lexy works to help paratroopers and soldiers
cope, Rumayor makes sure she also has time to play; either with
peers at a doggy daycare, or with some of the paratroopers during
base visits.
“I make sure she gets time to just be a regular dog,” Rumayor
said. “She loves to work, but she also loves to play tug or chase the
ball.”
According to Rumayor, Lexy inspires a
positive attitude both inside and outside
the treatment environment; coaxing smiles
out of everyone she meets. Her tail wags
equally for everyone, whether a private or
a general, and that alone can be a powerful
tool. And since Lexy’s arrival at Fort Bragg,
more soldiers have felt comfortable coming
into the behavioral health clinic, and they
are also more likely to continue and to
comply with treatment, which is crucial for
success. And Rumayor says many actually
enjoy coming into the clinic, now that Lexythe-morale-booster is on the team.
Thanks to Lexy’s success, Fort Bragg is
hoping to expand the therapy dog program
in their behavioral health clinics throughout
the base. And on a broader scale, the Army
is working to support and standardize
therapy dog use throughout the military
as it continues to gain momentum and
prove beneficial in the lives of soldiers and
veterans as well as their families.
Lexy shows her support for her fellow
soldiers in countless ways, whether quiet
companionship or by offering a kind face
to talk to. But on that brisk spring morning
earlier this year – when gearing up for a
four-mile footrace required a little extra motivation – Lt. Col. Lexy
was the go-to boost the troopers needed. Running at the crack of
dawn is a whole lot easier with a Lexy-induced smile on your face.
Special thanks to Maj. Christina Rumayor, and SPC Taryn Hagerman
for this article.
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AROUND THE COUNTRY
PET PARTNERS TEAMS AT WORK
Northeast
Elin MacKinnon and Nemo
Steuben, Maine
Nemo is a five-year-old Golden Retriever
who visits the Henry D. Moore Library in
Steuben, Maine each week. He and his
partner Elin are a newly registered Pet
Partners team and volunteer through Silent
Sidekicks, Maine’s first Animal-Assisted
Therapy organization. When six-year-old
Ciara comes to read to Nemo each week
at the library, Nemo recognizes her as she
approaches, thumping his tail loudly on the floor. Ciara spends a
few minutes greeting and patting, brushing or hugging Nemo, then
gets down to business and reads her book from beginning to end.
Sometimes she pats Nemo as she reads. Ciara loves to tell stories
about her adventures with her dog, but one day announced: “I tried
to read to my dog Ariel, but no matter what I do, she will not sit
still and listen – like Nemo does.” She also likes to share what she
imagines Nemo is thinking, and one day after showing him a picture
of himself, she said, “he thinks he’s much more handsome in real
life!”
Midwest
Jennifer Smith and Mr. Mini Cooper
Deephaven, Minnesota
“I kept my promise today. I feel proud in
that, but a bit heartbroken too, all at the
same time.” That’s how Jennifer Smith
began to tell her story about her therapy
rabbit Mr. Mini Cooper and a favorite patient.
The first day Jennifer took Mr. Mini to
visit patients in the Minnesota Masonic
Home, she felt an instant connection with
Margery, a red-haired 94-year-old woman
with a smile that lit up around her oxygen tube. Mr. Mini and
Margery sat together through the afternoon. She said she was
such an animal lover and missed having animals in her life. She kept
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saying she wanted to take the bunny back to her room. She said
she loved him. There was truly a bond formed that day.
Margery looked very sad when the interaction had to end, but
she told Jennifer, “I will work hard not to be sad if you promise
to bring him back to see me at least one more time.” Jennifer
promised without hesitation.
The next time Jennifer took Mr. Mini to the home, she made
sure to remind the director how important it was for them to visit
with Margery. Unfortunately Margery had taken a turn for the
worse, but the director said she wanted Jennifer to know how
special the visit with Mr. Mini was and she spoke of it many times.
Although the patient was dying, the director asked Jennifer to take
Mr. Mini to her.
Margery was struggling for every breath and Jennifer worried
that one of those breaths would be her last.
“Margery, it’s me and Mr. Mini,” Jennifer said. “We promised
we would come back to see you one more time, and here we are.”
She laid Mr. Mini on his pet bed next to Margery in her bed.
Jennifer took Margery’s hand and helped her stroke Mr. Mini’s
head. As if he understood his role, the rabbit moved closer so her
hand could reach him more easily.
Jennifer said she stroked the woman’s beautiful red hair and
said, “Goodbye, Margery. I am so thankful we came back today
to see you. I am thankful this was the day we chose,” as tears ran
down her face.
Stephanie Olson and Houdini
Peewaukie, Wisconsin
At Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, the
Volunteer Services Department receives
numerous patient requests for therapy
dog visits. The program offers positive
therapeutic experiences to help minimize
stress in the hospital environment, provide distraction from illness
and hospital procedures, and assist in scheduled physical therapy
visits.
Pet Partners team Stephanie Olson and her therapy dog Houdini
have been with the program since 2010, giving countless hours of
volunteer time to help comfort patients and families at the hospital.
Stephanie spoke about one particularly memorable experience.
“Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin is an amazing place to receive
pediatric care, but it is not home,” she said. “If you have ever
had to stay in a hospital, you know that going home is a priority.”
The team had been asked to visit a young boy in a wheelchair but
their schedule kept them otherwise engaged until after he was
discharged. Stephanie then learned the boy had happily waited past
his discharge time just to visit with Houdini. And after 30 minutes
with the dog, the boy was still not interested in going home. “That
says it all,” said Stephanie. “What child wouldn’t be eager to go
home, see friends and family and play with their own toys?”
Jean Martell and Colby
Maple Grove, Minnesota
Jean Martell received a request
to take her therapy dog Colby
to see a hospice patient. The
woman was so pleased and
spent a lot of time petting Colby
and talking to him. She shared
stories about dogs she’d had in
her lifetime and said she was a true dog lover, but that it had been a
couple of years since she had been able to spend time with a dog.
Colby wanted to lie down on the floor near the woman’s bed and
she said that was fine; she just enjoyed watching him. She also
wanted her grandson to meet Colby, so the team returned two days
later. During that visit, the patient asked that Colby be placed on the
bed with her; she was thrilled and put her arms around him in a big
hug. They snuggled together for quite some time. The woman made
soft noises as she held him and told Jean, “I’m purring!” After
visiting a few more times, Jean learned of the woman’s passing
when the patient’s daughter contacted her to ask the team to attend
the wake. “The whole family greeted us with smiles and petted
Colby, saying how much we had meant to their mom,” Jean said.
On display with all of the family photos was a picture of the woman
with Colby. “It was so heartwarming and satisfying to be able to
fulfill this wish for this wonderful woman,” she said.
Penny Sorenson and Auggie
Muskegon, Michigan
time to warm up to him.
Some of Sarah’s students have a tough time writing, sitting
and listening to stories being read. However with Auggie present,
everyone either sat at the table or on the floor by Auggie to listen
to a story. One particular student who occasionally screams
during class did not scream for the entire time Auggie was in the
classroom. Another boy usually refuses to follow directions, but
while holding the leash with Penny he collected his work, put it into
his backpack and continued to smile while walking to and waiting
for the bus. Sarah said this is not a small accomplishment for a child
with his challenges, concluding, “Transitions can be a difficult time
in my classroom, but with Auggie, I saw the joy that was displayed
by my students beginning to form their relationship. I’m hoping
that we can continue with ‘Team Auggie’ once a week for the next
school year.”
KC Arnold and Daisy
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Daisy and Kathleen “KC” Arnold visit a local
hospital, local public libraries and a clinic that
specializes in diabetes. The clinic – where
they recently started treating children with
diabetes aged three and up – is where they
have had the greatest impact. Daisy’s role is
to help children accept the use of different
devices needed to treat their illness. The
children use play devices (such as insulin
pumps without needles) to practice insulin injections. Riley, a fouryear-old girl who was diagnosed with diabetes about six months
ago, was introduced to Daisy on the first visit. The option of insulin
pump therapy was discussed, but the idea of a device was a bit
scary for Riley, so they used Daisy to practice putting on an insulin
pump. Riley looked up and said if Daisy can wear an insulin pump
then she could do it too. Now Riley comes to the clinic for her
“Daisy” appointments. Diabetes is a tough disease but Daisy’s
small role always puts a smile on a four-year-old little girl’s face.
“It was amazing to watch Auggie and
my students working together in my
classroom. My students and I enjoyed
team Auggie’s visit very much. Thank
you for all your help in making our
school day so special.” This was the
note Penny Sorenson received after
their first visit to Sarah Volker’s special
education class for students on the
autism spectrum disorder in grades
K-2.
All of her students interacted with
Auggie at their own pace; some were
excited and all smiles when they
petted Auggie, while others took their
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Southeast
Dina Garland and Cloie
Black Mountain, North Carolina
Even though Cloie, a Wirehaired
Fox Terrier, does not speak English,
she is helping elementary students
in speech therapy articulate more
clearly. Teamed with speech language
pathologists Beth Eckstein and
Cortney Pauly, Cloie and her owner
Dina Garland get to show off their
tricks and agility maneuvers each
week at Black Mountain Primary School. During most sessions, the
children get to choose one of a dozen tricks for Cloie to perform –
such as ‘twirl’ or ‘bow’ – and then have to say it in a sentence. The
commands contain sounds the students are working to pronounce
correctly, such as ‘s’ in sit, ‘tr’ in treat, ‘ch’ in fetch, and ‘z’ in puzzle.
Five students in kindergarten and first grade have been
working with Cloie each Friday during speech therapy. At first,
several of the students were difficult to understand, but after three
months they have all made improvements in their speech and
language. For example, Cara, a kindergartener working on her ‘l’
sound, told the speech therapist after a session, “Cloie has curly
hair like me.” Cara correctly produced three ‘ls’ without being
reminded about tongue placement. Speech therapists are always
looking for creative ways to get kids to practice their speech and
language targets. Cloie and Dina provide a fun, playful environment
where the students are highly motivated to say, “Speak, Cloie,
Speak!” over and over until Cloie, and they, get it right.
Donna Lawrence and Susie
High Point, North Carolina
The American Humane Association Hero
Dog Awards honor “ordinary” dogs who do
extraordinary things. Pet Partners is proud
to announce that the 2014 Top Hero Dog
winner is Susie, a registered Pet Partners
therapy team with her handler Donna
Lawrence of High Point, North Carolina.
Susie was just a puppy when she
endured a horrible abusive situation; she
was beaten, set on fire and left for dead.
Fortunately, she was rescued by a local animal shelter and treated
for her wounds. Meanwhile, Donna herself was recovering from
her own near-death experience from a dog attack that left her
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incapable of having children. After Donna adopted Susie they
formed a close bond that helped them both to heal. Donna was
instrumental in passing “Susie’s Law” in North Carolina, legislation
which gives harsher penalties to those who are convicted of animal
abuse. The team’s story inspires the people they visit to never lose
hope, no matter how unbearable their current situation.
Pet Partners Teams at Operation Purple Camp
Nashville, Tennessee
David Boehner and Bear
McGregor, Texas
Rebecca Davis and Oliver
Hammond, Louisiana
An endless supply of hugs and kisses
awaits Oliver as he enters Maddie’s
speech and language therapy session.
“Hey baby,” she says to the large
Golden Retriever as she leads the way
to their special reading time together.
Maddie participates in an AnimalAssisted Therapy program offered at
the Southeastern Louisiana University
Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic.
Oliver and his handler, Rebecca Davis, an Associate Professor/
Audiologist at the university, work in collaboration with Holly Smith,
Speech-Language Pathologist/Clinical Instructor, and her student
clinicians, to incorporate Animal-Assisted Therapy into Maddie’s
speech and language intervention. Maddie, an outgoing and
energetic nine-year-old, has Down syndrome which has caused
her to have significant communication and literacy delays. Her
speech is difficult to understand and her ability to comprehend
and produce language also is affected. It is typical to utilize books
and literacy activities during speech therapy sessions, as many
children with communication delays are at risk for literacy disorders.
Additionally, books are used to target various language skills, such
as vocabulary, problem solving, and language comprehension.
Before working with Oliver, Maddie was resistant to literacy
activities during her speech therapy sessions. Reading with
Oliver has dramatically increased her motivation to read, leading
to improved communication and literacy skills. Oliver visits her
hour-long sessions for 15-20 minutes, during which Maddie reads a
story to Oliver using a book that has been modified using pictures/
symbols to support her reading. She associates reading with Oliver
and practices the book with her clinician between his visits to her
sessions. Once Maddie has finished the book, she is rewarded with
an opportunity to give commands to Oliver. He gladly performs
tricks for her, such as “sit,” “shake” and “high five” in return for
treats. Maddie and Oliver have developed a bond and both benefit
from their time together: While Oliver helps motivate Maddie to
read, she showers him with love and affection.
Southwest
Operation Purple Camp is part of a program offered by the
National Military Family Association. Families of wounded military
personnel enjoy free residential camps that strive to help kids deal
with the stress that result from their parents’ active military duty.
The camps are held in various locations across the country and Pet
Partners therapy animal teams are always asked to participate.
Camps were held two separate weekends in October at the
YMCA Camp in Nashville and seven teams volunteered. Pictured
left to right are Nicole Gallegos with Johnny (Laguna Vista, TX),
Jenyfer Lindahl with Alexis (Gallatin, TN), and Dianne Klepin
with Darcy (Heath, TX). Also attending were Linda Gregg & Lan,
Rebecca Troutt & Jesse, Cheryl Sague & Kinsey, and Debbie
Ament de Nunez & Tashi. The teams were on hand to greet families
upon arrival and petting the dogs was the perfect icebreaker.
One young girl was quite shy and sat apart from the other
children. All the kids at camp are experiencing difficult situations
with their parents’ deployment, but this girl was even more
despondent because her parent had passed away. Within a short
time Jenyfer’s dog Alexis had her smiling and talking about her
pets. Soon, the little girl was interacting with the other teams and
introducing the incoming families to the dogs.
The Camp gives the children an opportunity to spend quiet,
quality time with their families, but it also allows them the space
to just be a kid. The Pet Partners teams helped as a soothing,
comforting, non-judgmental presence.
The American Kennel Club has
recognized AKC registered therapy
dogs since 2011 (www.akc.
org/akctherapydog). Titles are
specific to the number of visits
the team has completed. A great number of dogs registered
with Pet Partners have already earned titles, but Pet Partners is
very proud to announce that Bear, a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
teamed with David Boehner, became the very first to win the
highest level of honor with a gold medal on July 1—AKC Therapy
Dog Distinguished (THDD). To earn the title, the team must
have completed a minimum of 400 visits. David and Bear have
visiting access to virtually all departments in Baylor Scott &
White Hospital, including the emergency room and all children’s
areas. They also visit the rehabilitation department where Bear
demonstrates the use of the treadmill, inspiring many patients to
“give it a try.” During one visit when Bear was on the treadmill,
David heard an elderly woman nursing a broken hip remark, “If he
can do it, so can I.” The next morning, with assistance, the patient
took her first steps on the treadmill. Pet Partners congratulates
David and Bear for this high honor and their dedication!
Suzanne Powell and Handsome Harley
Alamo Heights, Texas
Suzanne Powell and Handsome
Harley the Poodle mix volunteer
for the San Antonio International
Airport (SAT) “Pups and Planes”
program designed to de-stress
anxious passengers. SAT is only
the fifth airport to have a visiting
animal program and it was recently
presented with an award from the Airport Council International
North America. Suzanne reports, “We have met more than
400 travelers from all over the United States and at least four
foreign countries; all with amazing stories to share. All encounters
have been positive – whether spoken or seen in the faces of
grandparents, parents and children, military personnel on the
move, and even travelers who said, ‘No thanks’ to meeting Harley
and then changed their minds once they saw his interaction with
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others.” One of Suzanne’s most memorable encounters was
meeting Amanda, a pretty 17-year-old girl using a wheelchair. She
chatted with Amanda, her mother and sister while they waited for
their luggage in the baggage section. Amanda’s constant smile was
contagious. Suzanne enjoys her volunteer work very much and says
of her airport visits, “I know of no better way to share what Harley
has to give to so many people at one time.”
comfort and happiness is easy,” Kathy said. “Having seen firsthand
the difference our dogs have made for the youth here at the shelter
is what it is all about.” A shelter graduate also spoke during the
event to honor the Wootens, sharing her memories from visits with
Rodrigo seven years ago. The 22-year-old woman said she still
saves his trading card.
Pet Partners Evaluator Symposium
San Pedro, CA
West
Janey Frazier and Honey Bee
Placerville, California
Janey Frazier and Honey Bee,
a Dachshund/Chihuahua mix,
regularly visit several skilled nursing
facilities in the Placerville, CA
area. In addition, they are assigned
specific patients by the local hospice
organization. Recently the team was
asked to visit a hospice patient who
was not doing well. The hospice
group felt the woman, a life-long
dog lover, might benefit from a visit
from Honey Bee. She was drifting in
and out of sleep when they arrived,
so Janey placed Honey Bee on a small blanket next to her. Honey
Bee seemed to sense the situation because she immediately lay
down and put her head on the woman’s thigh. They stayed for
nearly an hour while Janey occasionally sang soft songs and Honey
Bee remained completely still by the woman’s side. Two days later,
the hospice contacted Janey to say the woman had passed away
and that her children were comforted when they heard a gentle
little dog had been with their mother near the end of her journey.
Kathy and Chuck Wooten and Rodrigo
Huntington Beach, California
The Wootens were presented with the
Inspirational Award this summer for their
service at the Huntington Beach Youth
Shelter. Elsa Greenfield, Executive Director,
said, “Kathy and Chuck Wooten and Rodrigo
have been a critical part of helping our
youngsters feel at home here. They have
steadfastly visited every two weeks for eight
years.” Several other Pet Partners teams
also visit the facility and Kathy is responsible for coordinating the
visits and making sure the children have positive interactions with
the animals. She also helps teach the youngsters how to properly
care for their own animals. “Sharing our dogs with those that need
8
On October 11 – 12, 2014 Pet Partners hosted a Team Evaluator
Symposium in San Pedro, California to collaborate with
licensed evaluators across the country, sharing ideas and input
that identified common best practices and challenges. The
recommendations for strategic action will help guide Pet Partners’
direction for the upcoming year, refining and enhancing our
currently recognized gold standard Therapy Animal Program. The
productive meeting resulted in many ideas from our hard-working
evaluators in the field, including recommendations for additional
continuing education, suggestions for improvements in evaluation
procedures, and enthusiasm for plans to encourage and enable
more frequent communication between all volunteer groups. The
event was generously underwritten by the Mill River Foundation.
Sue Grundfest and Love Dog Adventures
Las Vegas, Nevada
Sue Grundfest began visiting Casa del
Sol two years ago with her poodle Kirby
(now deceased). This group home for
multiply challenged youth now has
several therapy animal teams visiting
the home regularly. Sue manages
Love Dog Adventures, a Pet Partners
Community Partner in Las Vegas,
Nevada.
One young girl at Casa del Sol at first
stayed in her room on a mattress on
the floor. She did not want to be touched and every aspect of her
life depended upon people touching her — to eat, bathe and dress.
Through great patience and identifying the right dogs and handlers,
this young girl has learned to “be gentle.” She has learned the
joy of a soft caress not only of a furry friend but a human friend.
She has learned to look into a person’s eyes with clarity and
understanding. She has learned how to laugh and communicate
through her body what she is feeling. She has learned to be calm
and patient and loving. She has learned to love.
Rich Schad & Emma
Louisville, Colorado
Emma the Golden
Retriever lay on the bed
of a cancer patient; a
gentleman who was
nearing the end of his life.
Emma’s tail wagged gently
and she stared lovingly at
the man as he scratched
behind her ears. Pet Partners therapy animals are the lubricant
for conversation, and this patient opened up to Emma, to Emma’s
handler Rich Schad, and to his family in his hospital room.
“We think we have so much time in the beginning and then we’re
thrown off course by the diagnosis. Then there was the planning of
what comes next. Will there be surgery, will there be chemo, and
how will that fit into my days that used to be filled with stuff? I just
did what I had to do, to give life another day. You know what I mean
Emma?” He looked at Emma while he spoke, and Emma appeared
to nod her head. Holding Emma’s head in his two gnarled hands,
he laughed with his lungs and throat, Emma with her eyes and tail.
His family members sat silently crying while he continued. “Darn
it, something changed — cancer made a move and I was caught
off guard. I need more time. I hardly felt the pressure to talk about
my life; the lives I shared, to my kids growing up, all those new little
ones, and most of all, have those talks with my soul mate.”
He sobbed violently into Emma’s fur and Emma nuzzled him back
while Rich tried to keep the tears at bay. There are many lessons to
be gained from volunteering with a therapy animal and on that day
Rich was reminded that time is slipping by for each of us every day.
We should all keep in mind the things that are important to us and
remember to share the details of our journey with our loved ones.
Phyllis O’Boyle and Kaylee
Waldport, Oregon
Kaylee the Havanese has been working with
her handler Phyllis O’Boyle for three years.
They regularly visit an assisted living home,
spending time with residents. One charming
lady in her late 90s had always been fond
of Kaylee; cuddling with the dog and
making sure everyone had a chance to pet her. She was all smiles
throughout every visit.
Then one day the woman stopped coming down to the
community room for social hour. She had suffered a stroke, and
Phyllis thought they would not be seeing her again. But the following
week, the staff brought her down in a wheelchair. The woman did not
look or act the same, but Kaylee recognized her and coaxed Phyllis to
take her over to her friend. She sniffed her and then settled down in
her lap. The woman no longer was able to cuddle with the dog, but
did some rough patting. Kaylee sat quietly and then reached up and
gave the woman a sweet kiss on the cheek. The woman then smiled
for the first time and spoke the name of a dog she had owned in her
past. In broken language, the woman told Kaylee how much she
had missed her all these years. “It touched my heart how much she
missed her dog and how calm she became with Kaylee’s response,”
Phyllis said. “It also touched my heart that Kaylee knew her even
though she had changed in appearance and demeanor. Kaylee knew
her friend.”
Lisa Stagner and Boise
Las Vegas, Nevada
An effective Animal-Assisted Therapy
program requires considerable attention to the
matches that are made: the match between
handler and animal, the match between facility
and program, the match between client and
animal, the match between human therapist, handler and animal,
and the match between need and skill set. At first, a very small
dog was paired with one particular child for a private session at the
Children’s Therapy Center in Las Vegas, NV. The child had very little
mobility and was not very verbal. But little Petey the Poodle was
just not up for the job. The child was then introduced to a Golden
Retriever named Boise with his handler Lisa Stagner, creating the
perfect therapy partnership. Boise learned new skills to work with
the child, such as lying on a swing and serving as a human pillow.
The young boy soon learned to trust his new friend and was so
motivated that his therapy sessions just flew by, with achievement
after achievement.
“I can lift my head to see Boise.”
“I can stretch all the way out to lean on Boise.”
“I can open my hands all the way out to stroke Boise.”
“I can laugh and giggle and smile and show emotion because I
love Boise.”
Boise is now a constant member of the therapy team and works
with this child weekly. The boy now looks forward to his therapy
sessions, even if they are painful or stretch his mind and body further
than he ever imagined.
9
The Animals of Pet Partners
Animal-assisted interventions and more specifically animal-assisted
activities have seen a tremendous growth in the past couple of
decades. Public interest in animal-assisted interactions seems
to have been an additional impetus for the growth that is being
witnessed. Personally (Aubrey) my early involvement in the field
began using a variety of species of animals including small and
large birds in my work with children. That was actually about 40
years ago when these animals were my pet partners even before I
began incorporating dogs. Today we see close to 10,000 registered
Pet Partners teams that utilize dogs. On the other hand all of the
other species registered by Pet Partners don’t account for even one
tenth of that total. That doesn’t imply that dogs are better therapy
animals, but only that they are the most widely employed. We
both appreciate the position that many species could be utilized
in therapeutic interactions, if they possess certain traits that make
them desirable and safe to interact with humans. It is ironic that
different people seem to not only be attracted to certain animals,
but they also seem more curious in interacting with specific
species. Irv Robbins was correct in saying that “Not everyone likes
all our flavors, but each flavor is someone’s favorite.” The same is
true about our therapy animals.
In discussing how to select various therapy animals, it is
critical to point out that there are certain expectations that
all therapy animals need to demonstrate in general. There are
three variables that we strongly suggest for all of the species
that we will be discussing. They are as follows:
1.Without question, the most important behavior in a good
therapy animal is based on a personality trait we could call being
affiliative to people. In essence, these are animals that when
they see a person are extremely receptive and responsive.
2.The animals must have early socialization with humans. These
early experiences will help them become very comfortable with
human interaction.
3.The animals must demonstrate consistent behavior that will
allow the handler to feel confident about the animal’s interaction
with people.
All therapy animals should also be screened periodically by a
veterinarian for health checks.
The following briefly describes and orients you to what traits
you should expect to see in any of the nine species of therapy
animals that Pet Partners registers.
10
DOGS
9,912 in service
Kathleen Duffy with her therapy Sheltie Windy visiting residents at Christa Shores Assisted
Living Community in Silverdale, WA, photo by Mary Burlingame
As noted earlier, dogs are the most utilized therapy animals. There
are numerous behaviors that would be expected from a dog who
was part of a therapy team. In general these dogs need to have a
good temperament style and enjoy human interaction and touch.
They need to be extremely social and friendly but need to respond
in a gentle and calm manner. Therapy dogs who visit a variety of
settings must be able to handle unusual sights, sounds, and smells.
The dogs need to be obedient and be able to regain self-control
after being excited. They also need to be able to be attentive to
their handler and not demonstrate anxiety in novel situations. Like
other animals used in therapy, these dogs need to be able to feel
comfortable being petted, and interacted with.
CATS
198 in service
Bev Oakes’ therapy cat Junior comforts hospital patient Andrew Lee in San Antonio, TX
Cats can be tremendous visiting therapy animals. There are several
variables that should be considered. Cats should be comfortable
with being handled and held. Some of the desired behaviors
should be the cat appears relaxed with body handling and being
appropriately touched all over. The cat should be comfortable
being groomed, pet, picked up, and gently held. The also should
be relaxed wearing a harness and leash. Since these cats will be
transported to various locations they need to be comfortable and
relaxed during car rides and at ease in new environments (when
visiting new locations). The following behaviors identify what
individuals should expect to see in a relaxed cat: slow blinks or
closed eyes, slow, gentle tail sway or the tail may be still, relaxed
ears, positioned forward, relaxed body, good appetite, and relaxed
and comfortable meeting other cats, dogs, and strangers.
EQUINES
202 in service
Marsha Craig’s miniature therapy horse Lily made a tough day a little better for patient Luis
Fernando da Silva Batemarque at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, MA, photo by Chitose
Suzuki, reprinted with permission from the Boston Herald
Horses are gorgeous, graceful and loving beings that can be
wonderful registered therapy animals. It is suggested that horses
used in therapy should be between 6-15 years of age. Older horses
typically have been exposed to things that younger horses may
not have experienced. Unfortunately younger horses may be more
guarded to the uncertain behaviors found within the human world.
For children, miniature horses or ponies are better choices because
they are less threatening in size. Miniature horses make great therapy companions and are often used on hospital visits.
Horses should possess a certain temperament style to be a
selected for therapy. Overall, they must be calm, stand quietly
when being groomed, and react positively to human interaction. A
viable horse must be trustworthy while being lead through novel
environments. They must not bite, kick, buck, pace, or crib. A horse
that is used in therapy should accept hands around their mouth as
well as being touched all over the body.
11
RABBITS
78 in service
Young Pet Partners handler Lillian Pringle shares the affection of her rabbit Peanut with
Levert Avery at the Breath of Life Adult Day Service in Brainerd, MN
Rabbits have long been a favorite pet due to their soft fur, big eyes,
and enchanting hop. They are very similar to guinea pigs in terms
of their diet and care requirements. One notable difference is that
cradling a rabbit or restraining them will lead to kicking, so should
be avoided. Instead, rabbits should be allowed to rest comfortably
on a person’s lap while being fed vegetables or petted. They also
require time and space to frolic and explore, which can provide a
wonderful venue for observation and discussion. Rabbits with a
fear of humans are not suitable as therapy animals. One sign of a
rabbit that may be well suited to therapy is that they approach and
will eat from the hand of a human. Early socialization with different
humans can enhance suitability to therapy.
12
BIRDS
29 in service
Dan Lee’s therapy Macaw Buddy being read to by a third grade student in Mesa, AZ
Birds are beautiful creatures and can make wonderful therapy
companions. I (Aubrey) began using birds in therapy sessions
about 30 years ago. Birds that are young and socialized early may
make strong candidates as therapy birds. Birds that are hand fed
seem to be more comfortable interacting with individuals. An ideal
bird would be one that doesn’t startle easily and appears to enjoy
human companionship. The selected bird has to be pretty steady
and will not likely get startled. Introduce the bird slowly to therapy,
and make sure that bird doesn’t seem to experience anxiety. Birds
that like to be handled are preferable but it is suggested that the
handler be in control of all interactions for the safety of the bird
and the client. Those individuals that are considering birds need
to appreciate that birds who get a great deal of attention early in
their lives will expect and need to receive similar attention as they
age. Cockatiels, small parrots, and lovebirds make good candidates
(e.g. dusky conures). Some cockatoos make viable candidates but
one needs to be cautious of excessive screeching. Strong training
is necessary for birds to work in therapeutic settings especially
because they have to wear a harness and a leash.
GUINEA PIGS
22 in service
PIGS
6 in service
Niki Vettel and her therapy guinea pig Ralphie help clients at the Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller
Center in Boston, MA
Donna Latella’s therapy pig Penelope affectionately greets an admirer at an adult day
center in Guilford, CT
Guinea pigs are small, furry critters from the rodent family. They are
commonly confused with hamsters, but are differentiated by the fact
that they do not have a tail and they are diurnal (waking during the
day). They are a popular choice for children and school classrooms
due to their small size and endearing demeanor. They make adorable
squeaks when they want food and are known for “popcorn,” or
hopping happily around when they are in a good mood.
Guinea pigs are social creatures and therefore should always
live with a pal to provide environmental enrichment. They are prey
animals and can be skittish if they are not socialized to humans
from a young age. Children can learn about empathy with guinea
pigs by learning how to best approach and handle them. Guinea
pigs will not eat unless they feel safe and secure, which can be an
excellent signal to children that they are engaging in an appropriate
and effective manner with the animal. Always have snacks on
hand for a guinea pig, such as grass or carrots. Another suggested
activity is sitting and gently cradling the guinea pig close to one’s
chest and taking deep breaths. A child can monitor the speed of the
guinea pig’s heart rate in addition to his or her own, as a biofeedback
mechanism to reinforce relaxation. Guinea pigs who have not been
socialized or who demonstrate extreme fear of humans should not
be used as therapy animals. When selecting a guinea pig for therapy,
it is advisable to socialize the animal to humans from birth, or to look
for the following characteristics: does not tend to hide when humans
approach, will eat while being held, may fall asleep while being held
or shows relaxed (not wide open) eyes.
There has been a proliferation of pot-bellied pigs as companion
animals in recent years. If cared for appropriately, a pig can provide
a wonderful therapy animal partner. They are smart, trainable, clean,
and affectionate. They may be a suitable choice for clients who
are allergic to cats and dogs. However, pigs require specialized
enrichment and care. Without appropriate space and activities,
pigs may become food aggressive or destructive. These behaviors
can be minimized by ensuring appropriate spaces for digging and
natural behavior outdoors, as well as positive reinforcement for
desired behaviors indoors. The choice to include a pig should be
approached with careful consideration of these needs as well as
their size (average 125 pounds) and lifespan (roughly 12-18 years).
They are a rewarding commitment for those who can provide
appropriate care.
13
LLAMAS/ALPACAS
21 in service
RATS
2 in service
HOW TO HELP
Make a Donation
Pet Partners relies on donations made by individuals, foundations,
corporations and thousands of volunteers to provide program
services. Demand for our services is much greater than we can
provide and your support will help those waiting for us to reach
them. Join as a member by donating $50 or more and receive
our publication Pet Partners Interactions magazine and other
membership benefits. Or consider making a gift in honor or memory
of a pet, family member or friend.
Ways To Make A Donation
1.Online at www.petpartners.org/donate
2.By phone by calling 425.679.5517
3.By mail to 875 124th Ave NE #101,
Bellevue, WA 98005
Niki Kuklenski’s therapy llama Cayetano elicits a smile from Seth and Margaret Jane Gerou
in Bellevue, WA, photo by Dani Weiss
Vicki Altman’s therapy rat Chippie is cuddled by Georgiana Contento, a resident at one of
the facilities Vicki and Chippie visit in Lenexa, KS.
Llamas and alpacas are unconventional therapy animal choices, but
ones that have brought joy and comfort to many individuals. Llamas
loom large at nearly six feet tall and between 300 and 450 pounds.
Alpacas grow to roughly half that size. Training and socialization
are essential to facilitate successful interactions in therapeutic
settings. The use of a halter and lead will enable smooth facility
visits. Integrated food rewards allow clients to experience positive
interactions with these unique creatures. Carefully monitoring the
safety and security of the animal is essential to preventing fearful
behaviors such as spitting. Common therapy activities include
feeding, grooming, leading, and engaged observation.
Rats tend to be an underrated and often overlooked choice for
a therapy animal. They are incredibly smart and social. Once
socialized with humans, rats will eagerly climb on a client’s
shoulders and provide comforting companionship. Their intelligence
makes them an excellent candidate for creative enrichment
activities such as mazes and games. They even enjoy being gently
tickled and once accustomed to it will follow a person’s hand
around to receive this fun interaction. To enhance therapeutic
outcomes for the human and the animal, ensure that rats are
provided with thoughtful and varied environmental enrichment such
as toys, tunnels, and climbing opportunities.
The efficacy of animal-assisted interventions is very
dependent on the partnership between the handler and
the therapy animal. Decisions need to be made on how
to select the most viable candidates for involvement. It
is also critical that the animal’s welfare is strongly taken
into consideration, so that the experience is equally
beneficial and safe. When all of these factors are taken
into consideration, the outcomes can enrich the lives of
many who are touched.
14
Acknowledgements: The authors would like to thank Kateena
Jones and Robin Kilcoyn for their assistance in gathering
information about horses and cats.
Dr. Aubrey Fine is on the faculty of California State Polytechnic
University where he is a professor in the College of Education and
Integrative Studies and is a member of the Pet Partners board. His
newest book, “Our Faithful Companions” has just been published
by Alpine Publications.
Dr. Marguerite O’Haire is an Assistant Professor of Human-Animal
Interaction at Purdue University.
4.Select Pet Partners as the recipient
of your workplace giving
Recurring gifts are an easy
way to make a big impact.
Your love for animals is second nature. Now, supporting Pet
Partners can be just as automatic. Creating a recurring gift is
convenient, customizable, and environmentally friendly. Most
important, recurring gifts ensure a steady source of support for Pet
Partners, enabling us to continue providing the highest standard of
human-animal interactions to improve the physical, emotional and
psychological lives of those we serve.
Pet Partners relies on corporate sponsors who
help make our mission possible. Companies interested in becoming
members of our Caring Company program please visit
www.petparters.org/caringcompanies.
You can also help by conducting your own grassroots fundraising event or ask about our Peer-to-Peer online fundraising opportunity. You
may also become a member of our Caring Community, a national group of supporters who have made provisions in their estate planning
to support the work of Pet Partners. Email julied@petpartners.org or call 425.679.5502 for details.
WHAT’S NEW
Volunteering With Your Pet Webinar
Tuesday, January 20, 6:00 p.m. PST
Have you ever considered volunteering as a therapy animal team?
Pet Partners invites prospective volunteers to attend a one-hour
informational webinar (online interactive presentation) to learn
about our Therapy Animal Program. Led by experienced volunteer
Susan Tiss with the assistance of Pet Partners staff, this session
will cover the process for becoming a registered therapy animal
team with your pet. Registration information: www.petpartners.
org/VolunteeringWebinar
A second webinar will be held Thursday,
July 23, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. PST
Coming in 2015
Volunteering with Your Pet (Jan/Feb and fall)
Volunteering with Your Llama (spring)
And many more to come. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or
visit our website, www.petpartners.org
15
Saying Goodbye.
The deep bond between Judi Young and her Australian Shepherd Jackson formed
the moment she saw him as a puppy in 1998. The day after his adoption, Jackson
made his first therapy visit to Judi’s mother who was near death – comfort that
was also essential for Judi. Through the next several years Jackson’s affection
helped Judi through other difficult times including her father and her brother’s
passing.
Jackson was an energetic and happy dog who competed in agility trials
and flyball, but his greatest skill was providing encouragement and comfort to
patients at the University of North Carolina Hospitals and UNC students before
exams.
Judi described their last day together: “…he was getting weaker, but
Jackson gave it his all to travel to visit relatives. During this trip he was not doing
well and I decided it was time to go home early. When we arrived I placed him
on his favorite bed and thanked him for giving me one more gift - to get us home
together. I thanked him for giving me so much and he passed peacefully.”
Judi’s experience as a Pet Partners handler proved to her the power of
animal-assisted interactions to assist with healings. Her mother and Jackson’s
memories gave her the strength to continue her volunteer service — she has just
completed the requirements to become a licensed team evaluator.
We thank our therapy animals who touched
many lives during their years of service.
Retired between April 16, 2014 - September 15, 2014
ALUMNI
AGNES, Terrier Mix, Kay Zollner, OR
ANNIE, Golden Retriever, Deanna M. Tuley, CO
BABE, Golden Retriever, Jennifer Donner, NM
BAILEY, Golden Retriever, Amy McCullough, CO
BALOO, Newfoundland, Pamela L. Kroll, WI
BANDI, Golden Retriever, Rita J. Hartman, AZ
BARKLEY, Bullmastiff, Barbara Dietz, AZ
BARNEY, Golden Retriever, Carol M. Rosen, CN
BAYLOR, Chow Chow Mix, Sharon Leebl, AZ
BELLA, Boxer, Brenda Reed, OR
BELLA, Labrador Retriever, Karen A. Gibson, NC
BELLA, Australian Shepherd, Vivian B. Aiello, FL
BLUE, Great Dane, Leah L. LaGrone, AL
BOONE, Border Collie, Susan Orr, OR
CAESAR, Labradoodle, Susan Pedrosa, NY
CEASAR, Golden Retriever, Marianne Hamilton, IA
CHACO, Australian Shepherd, Mandy Bell, CO
CHAMBORD, Golden Retriever, Colin Ladd, CN
CHIP, Chocolate Lab, Barbara Boyd, AZ
DAPHNE, Bichon Frise, Ann Jenkins, TX
DUSTY, Golden Retriever, Diane Smith-Faughn, TX
FAWN, Greyhound, R. Philip Johnson, FL
FRED, Doberman Mix, Patricia F. Pratt, NE
GLENN, Border Collie, Susan Orr, OR
GUMBO, Greyhound, Joan S. Speckin, CA
GYPSY ROSE, Shih Tzu, Kathy L. Cross, AL
HARLOW, Golden Retriever, Charles and Michael
Richardson, WA
HEIDI, Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie), Linda David, CA
HULA, Labrador Retriever, Tina Jones, CO
JELLY, Golden Retriever, Elle Kahler, CO
JERRY, Golden Retriever, Dean Robbins, NH
JETTA, Labrador Retriever Mix, Christine A. Spaetzel, OH
KATIE, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Anne M. Przybyla, CO
KIKI, French Bulldog, Marilyn M. Edwards, OH
LADDIE, Rough Collie, Brooke Kowalski, TN
LEGEND, Golden Retriever, Jeanne Ladd, CN
LUCY, Brittany, Emily Ragsdale, NC
LUG NUT, Pitbull, Laura Goodhue, AZ
LUNA, Pitbull, Heather Jenkins Brazzell, VA
MAX, Chinese Crested, Catherine Varidel, GA
MAX, Border Collie, Susan Orr, OR
MICKEY, Havanese, Nancy Stone, NY
MISSY, Labrador Retriever Mix, Chris Monahan, CA
MISSY, Golden Retriever, Terri Rafter, IL
MISSY, Golden Retriever, Barbara M. Lindberg, TX
MISTY, Standard Poodle, Marianne Mitchell, AZ
MOKI, Border Collie Mix, Chuck Simon, CA
MOLLY, Great Pyrenees, Linda J. Anderson, WA
MOOSE, Bernese Mountain Dog, Katrina Zabinska, WA
MUFFIN, Yellow Lab, Linda L. Wandrick, VA
MURPHY, Golden Retriever, Dave Hill, AZ
NATALIE, Shetland Sheepdog, Wendy Waddick, IL
NEMO, Newfoundland, Susan D. Marino, MA
NORM II, Labrador/Golden Retriever Mix, Sue Ellen
Choate, IL
ORVILLE, Golden Retriever, Michael Galuskin, NY
OWEN, Newfoundland, Alison J. Berlin, MA
PACO, Black Labrador Retriever, Jane Tomlinson, CA
POGO, Poodle, Fran Rudy, CA
POKEY, Jack Russell Terrier, Chris A. Doyle, MA
PONY, Golden Retriever, Edward P. Allen, RI
POPS, Pug, Peggy Mattingly, AZ
PUNKY, Golden Retriever, Lynn Huizinga, CA
RANGER, Rough Collie, Terry Tauber, IL
REILLY, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Charlotte
Champ, NY
RHODI, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Lynn L. Winston, AZ
RILEY, Terrier Cross, Diane McGuire, AZ
ROSIE, Basset Hound, Beth Fuller, AL
RUBY, Golden Retriever, Caitlin Smith, OR
RUDY, Golden Retriever, James R. Peters, OR
RUNZA, Greyhound, Mino Fuller, CO
SADIE, Basset Hound, Debbi Y. Martin, TN
SAGE, Golden Retriever, Bruce Aronson, MT
SAMSON, Standard Poodle, Diana Pate, TX
SASHA, Maltese, Joni Vernars, CA
SHEENA, German Shepherd, Robin Ratner, AZ
SHEENA, Yellow Lab, Teddi A. Berger, NY
SHERMAN, Sheltie, Linda M. Stutz, OH
SKIPPY, Golden Retriever, Anne Adley, WA
SPICE, Golden Retriever, Jeanne Ladd, CN
TOMMY, Golden Retriever, Janet Bayless, CO
TYLER, German Shepherd, Kristi Hanna, TX
WALLY, Shepherd Mix, Shirley Atwood, CN
WHISPER, English Setter, Naomi B. Vizena, MI
WILLOW, Mastiff Mix, Kathie A. Young, CO
WINNIE, Labrador Retriever, Catherine Ward, NE
WRIGLEY, Golden Retriever Mix, Patricia F. Pratt, NE
ZINDEL, Labrador/Golden Retreiver Mix, Nicholas C.
Contes, CA
Divinity lived in a cage for her first nine years, working as a puppy-mill breeder;
having countless litters of puppies. Divinity was 9-1/2 years old when Richard
Lema adopted her, and at that time, she did not even know how to walk on
a leash. Teaching Divinity to learn to live in freedom required several months
that first year. However, only 10 months after her adoption, Divinity not only
completed her Canine Good Citizen training, she had also passed the evaluation
to become a Pet Partners therapy dog. Wherever she went, Divinity’s aura of serenity attracted many people who
enjoyed petting and talking to Richard’s “little lady.” Retirement came in 2012, and a life of being spoiled by her dad.
After her retirement Divinity, through her blog, became a champion for senior pet adoption, campaigned for discounts
for senior pets and became an advocate for handicapped pets. Sadly, five months after her 14th birthday, Divinity’s
veterinarian diagnosed her with terminal cancer. She fought bravely, but lost her final battle on September 10, 2014.
16
April 16, 2014 - September 15, 2014
PASSED AWAY
AMIGO, Labrador Retriever, Suzanne Staid, LA
AUGGIE, German Shepherd, Laurie L. Angel, GA
AUSSIE, Australian Shepherd, Kathy Kroening, AZ
BANDIT, Golden Retriever, Susan Cucuz, OH
BENTLEY, English Bulldog, Pat Miya, WA
BONNIE, Shetland Sheepdog, Becky Z. Jankowski, IL
BUDDY, Miniature Horse, Diane McGuire, AZ
BUSTER, Rottweiler, Dave Smith, FL
CASSIE, Bichon Frise, Keith & Claudette Adkins, CA
CINDY LOU, Standard Poodle, Tara G. McLaughlin, VA
CLARK, Bullmastiff, Rhea B. Bateman, OH
DAISY, Golden Retriever, Amy Stallings, NY
DIVINITY, Cairn Terrier, Richard Lema, MN
DYLAN, Golden Retriever, Lori Hall, AZ
EDDIE, Yorkshire Terrier, Christine Stephansen, MN
FIONA, Brussels Griffon, Julie D. Krogh, Kansas
FITZ, Bernese Mountain Dog, Brad & Dawn Puck, OH
FRANK, Golden Retriever Mix, Deborah Zigler, IN
FREEDOM, Australian Kelpie, Sharon M. Alexander, TX
ISABELLA, Australian Shepherd, Mary Gaines, ID
JACK RABBIT, Doberman, Andrea B. Zack, CA
JAJCA, Standard Poodle, Linda Lester, OH
JAKE, Cocker Spaniel Mix, Patti L. Struchynski, ND
KENDALL, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Gretchen
DeMoss, OR
LIL, Yellow Labrador Retriever Mix, Jeanette
Templeton, VA
LUCKY, Labrador Retriever, Kathryn Ozimek, WA
MADELINE REY, Pitbull Mix, Barbara Rey, IL
MAURY, Domestic Short-Hair Cat, Mandy Nicholson,
NV
MIKE, Australian Shepherd, Melannie Layne, AL
MOLLY, Cairn Terrier, Darlene Gosnell, IN
OLIVER, Cairn Terrier, Naomi B. Vizena, MI
PEYTON, Bernese Mountain Dog, Paul Sawyer, OH
PILOT, Border Collie Mix, Katherine Gigandet, CA
RILEY, Labradoodle, Jane Taylor, FL
SANDY, Wheaten Terrier, Marla Hacker, OR
SAVVY, Briard, Holly L. Dundore, MN
SCOOTER, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Joyce Rivas,
PA
SCOOTER, Papillon, Diane McGuire, AZ
SCOTCH, Border Collie Mix, Diane McGuire, AZ
SHADOW, Labrador, Laurie L. Angel, GA
SIMON, Domestic Short Hair Feline, Diana Richett,
Lakewood, CO
SONJA, Standard Poodle, Marian Twitchell, ID
SUNSHINE, Boston Terrier, Shellie K. Pinner, NJ
TITUS, Chocolate Labrador Retriever, CindyKay W.
Graham, FL
TYD, Schipperke, Shirley Sullivan, TX
QUINN, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, LuAnn S.
Rogers, OH
RAINBOW, Greyhound, Sharon L. Fricke, KS
RALPHIE, Pitbull mix, Marc Garland, OH
RIZZO, Golden Retriever, Janet R. Morganm OH
ROCKY, German Shepherd, Stuart Davidson, ME
ROCKY, Labrador Retriever, Everett and Linda Lyon, VT
ROSIE, Scottish Terrier, Ruth H. Hodos, CA
ROSIE, Golden Retriever, Sara Rostand, CA
ROXIE, English Bulldog, Scott J. Franklin, NY
ROXIE, Golden Retriever, Cynthia Bennetts, CA
RUBY, West Highland White Terrier, Patricia H. Quillen, VA
RUDY, Golden Retriever, Jo M. Lepse, KS
RUSTY, Sheltie, Barbara Schoof, AZ
SADIE, Mastiff, Victoria Soares, CA
SADIE, Labrador Retriever, Ann Ganger, IL
SAMMY, Australian Shepherd, Sue E. Reid, WI
SANDY, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Patricia Williams, WA
SARAH, Labrador Retriever Mix, Wendy Panikker, CT
SASHA, Samoyed, David Kettering, MN
SAVANNAH, Domestic Rat, Vicki L. Altman, KS
SCHNOZ, Fox Terrier, Keirsten Rain, NY
SNOOPY, Miniature Schnauzer, Charles Brown, SC
SOPHIE, Akita, Alena Picha, LA
SOPHIE, Shepherd Mix, Whitney Mason, WA
SPREE, Great Dane, Claire Burke, MT
SUNDANCE, Golden Retriever, Diana Salla, OH
TAREK, Great Pyrenees, Sarah Wylly, TX
TEDDY BEAR, Yorkshire Terrier, Sheila Marie Anderson, FL
TESS, Shetland Sheepdog, Robert Daliege, AZ
TIKVA, Keeshond, Cindy L. Ehlers, OR
TOBY, Golden Retriever, Deb Jansky, WI
TWEED, Border Terrier, Gayle H. Tilles, CA
VAREKAI, Yellow Labrador Retriever, Caitlin Smith, OR
WIFI, Australian Cattle Dog, Noreen R. Yoshida-Peer, CA
ZEKEY, Cockatoo, Susan Crane, PA
ZOE, Golden Retriever, Ellen G. Emert, CT
ZUZU, Siberian Husky, Elizabeth Friend-Ennis, NY
17
Pet Partners Caring Community
Pet Partners wishes to thank the following families who have made provisions in their estate planning for Pet Partners. We appreciate their
support that will make their love last forever.
Willmetta & Charles
Allen *
Dr. Robert Anderson *
Anonymous
Dr. Donna Baer
Grace & Larry Ballentine
Bernard Baron *
Valerie & Richard Beck
Sally Becker *
Barbara & David Bell
Marie Bickel *
Nancy & William Biery
Frances Bleick *
Margaret Bott *
Helen Boyd
Florence Burkholder
Dr. Leo Bustad *
Marite Butners
Helen Caradonna *
Dr. Betty Carmack
Dr. Craig & Ronda Carter
Dr. Gary & Mary Lynn
Champion
Dr. Aphrodite Clamar
Cohen
Sheila Cohen
Fred Cole II *
Eugenia Colman *
Melody Cook
Deborah Morgan Couples *
Sophie & Derek
Craighead
Dr. Merry Crimi
Dr. Roy & Lydia Cruzen
Janna De Lue
Karl Denniss *
Stephanie Denniss *
Barbara Dimock *
The Dogfather (James
Schwartz)
Virginia Louis Doris *
Lt. Cmdr. Constance Dorn
Dr. D’Ann Downey
Trudy Doyle *
Jon & Lynnette Eastlake
Karen Edwards
Dr. Joan Engel
Lillian Thomas Jones
Eure *
Janet Fisher
Dr. Robert & Catherine
Franklin
Ann Fuller *
Harold Galbraith
Nora Gallaher
Gilbert Glass
Carol Gonnella
Charles Granoski Jr.
Jane Marie Griffin *
Katharine & Goody
Harding
Barbara Harris
Dr. James Harris
Todd Hendricks
Mary Hill
Linda Hines
Cheryl Hovanick
Robin Huckeba
Gladine Hudoff *
Jennifer Jarpe
Joan & Bill Jensen
Chuck
Granoski
Chuck Granoski and Buddy
“I have always had a commitment to social responsibility
and have chosen to do so in the human-animal bond
field to assist those who do the important day-to-day
work in this field. The positive health benefits people and
their pets receive from the human-animal interaction is
invaluable to a society and there remains a significant
unmet need for additional such services in the world.
These are just two of the reasons I decided to become
involved with the work of Pet Partners.
18
Jacqueline Joseph
George Keely *
Marion Kline *
Cristine Kossow
Marguerite Lachs *
Susan Lilley
Carolynn Loacker
Rebecca Lovejoy
Barbara & Wendell
Loveless
Esther Lyndon
Betty and Kendall
Manning
Dr. Bill & Janice
McCulloch
Dr. Michael McCulloch *
Marilyn McDaniel *
Leatrice Meyers *
Karen Miller
Dr. Queenie Mills *
Wayne Minter *
Louis Carl Mirabile *
Marion Mitton
Marilyn & David Mize
Davelie & Russell Morgan
Maria Myckaniuk
Tom Nelson
Billyanna Niland *
Katharine Quinn Nolan *
Jeannie & Bruce
Nordstrom
Lawrence Norvell
Kyoko O’Neill
Martha Jane Pearcy
John Remer Jr.
Mark Rosenblum
Debbie & Robert Ross
Michelle & Ed Sayres
Dr. Olivia Scarse
Theodore Schneider *
Jacquetta Schulz *
Mal Schwartz
Alfred Siegel
Michael Siwula
Jean & Bob Sneed
Carol & Mark Spisak
Sandra Squires
Dr. Wayne & Sharon
Sternberger
Stuard Estate *
Walter Stugis
Ingrid Sunzenauer
Sarah Sweatt
Dr. Gregg & Laura
Takashima
Anne Taubman
Edith Lee Taylor *
Dr. Irving Taylor
Ella Mae & Doc Thomas
Dr. Lorna Vanderzanden
Verrill Family Trust *
Eleanor Vigil
Jean Vollum *
Dr. William Warley
Linda & Craig Wescoatt
Julianne Whitcomb
Woodside Estate *
Dorothy Wynn *
* Bequest received.
Because of my 30-plus years of experience in the animal
and children’s welfare fields as a board member for local,
regional, and national organizations, I was recruited to
serve on the Pet Partners board. I have been and continue
to be very impressed with Pet Partners’ commitment to
the highest standards for education and training of teams
across the country. The work done by the nearly 11,000
teams in coordination with the Veterans Administration,
UCLA Medical Center, Tufts University, the Mayo Clinic
and many more speaks to the high caliber of our teams,
training and talent. I am very proud to support the current
work of Pet Partners and am providing for their future
through my estate planning and the Caring Community
program.”
Chuck Granoski was born, raised and resides in Tacoma with his life
partner Candace Cragg. They have three grown children. He has been
with the Law Offices of Betzendofer & Granoski since 1974 and has been
active in nonprofits all his life including the boards of the American
Humane Association in Denver, the Humane Society for Tacoma and
Pierce County in Washington State and as both board member and
interim CEO for Pet Partners in 2014.
Introducing
The Delta Giving Society
Dr. Leo K. Bustad
In 1977, a group of visionaries led by veterinarians Dr. Leo K. Bustad and
Dr. William ‘Bill’ McCulloch along with his brother, psychiatrist Dr. Michael J.
McCulloch, and a quartet of other veterinarians came to know one another
as they shared their observations that pets were having a positive impact on
their human clients’ health and happiness. They formed the Delta Foundation
and planted the seed that would grow exponentially over nearly four decades
to become Pet Partners, the nation’s largest and most prestigious nonprofit
training handlers and evaluating multiple species for Animal-Assisted
Interactions.
Today, we are proud to introduce The Delta
Giving Society. It honors Pet Partners
heritage and founding in 1977 as a leader
in demonstrating and promoting positive
human-animal interactions while paving
a healthy road to the future. Forty years
later, the science behind the benefits of
Animal-Assisted Interactions has become
indisputable. From students and seniors
to veterans and the disabled, as well as
patients in recovery and those approaching
end of life, the impact of these interactions
is felt one million times a year. In 2014,
interest in Animal-Assisted Interactions is
exploding; the importance of maintaining
a quality approach with rigor that supports
the human-animal bond is perhaps more
important than ever. To honor our visionary
roots and to meet the challenges of today,
we have created the Delta Giving Society to
recognize those supporters who understand
our work and consistently demonstrate
generous support.
For information contact Julie Delano,
National Director of Development,
425.679.5502 or julied@petpartners.org
If you are interested in learning how you can provide for
Pet Partners’ future by leaving a gift through the Caring
Community, contact Julie Delano, National Director of
Development, 425.679.5502 or julied@petpartners.org
19
Honor and Memorial Donations
Special thanks to the following donors who, by
contributing to Pet Partners, remember the special spirit
of an animal or person that touched their lives.
In Honor of
Ray Ward
Lisa Dolin
Colby Martell
Jean Martell
all volunteer
rescue groups
Carolyn Baird
Dr. Donald Weiss
Stephanie Quinby
Grace Melendez
Dr. Lynda Melendez
George Berger
Nancy Stone
Dana Wilson
Paula Simon
Mollie & Dino Minahan
Sue Minahan
Linda Biel
Andrea Hanlon
In Honor of
Pets
Maddie Moosbrugger
Joseph Moosbrugger
Philip Favero
Mariangela Monteiro
Yodels Forster
Jill Forster
Justin Gardner
Kirsten Luethy
Allen & Jasmine Green
Gail Stevens
Bill Griffin
Deborah Marchione
Diane Jamieson
Emily Singh
JF Service Dog Training
Jill Forster
Michele Kennedy
Terri DeLoach
Jordan Marsar
Emily Trovato
Patty Morgan
Katharine & Goody Harding
Madeline & Mowgli
Polen
Tricia Dunne-Silvetti
Steven & Spencer
Spivak
Jessica Yellen
Al & Mary Lou
Vanderwiel
Jeremy & Melissa Fryer
20
Tela Batty
Elizabeth Batty
Donna & Derek Carrow
Dorothy Myers
Kathryn Rheinhart
Jefferson & Phillip
Twitter Crouse
Dawn Crouse
Buddy Disheva
Zorina Disheva
Maeby Ferbet
Kory Ferbet
Norbert Freyermuth
Cynthia Hersh
Toby Glaves
Julie Glaves
Onix & Jordon
Goodman
Julie Goodman
Uumaa & Tanya Gracey
Dorothy Gracey
Chai Gunderson
Andrea Gunderson
Missy Hall
Mary Hall
Arizona Jaeger
Betty Fortney
Sammy Johnson
Linda Johnson
Jackson Moosbrugger
Joseph Moosbrugger
Louie Perrault
Victoria Benzing
Silentbob & Shorty
Quinn
Susan & Patrick Quinn
INTERACTION WITH ANIMALS
reduces
blood
pressure
Barnabas Rittermal
Elizabeth Rittermal
Doggie Itty Bits Ryder
Mary Ann Ryder
Molly Stone
Carol Stone
Billie Turvey
Christine Turvey
Cookie Walper
Maritia Walper
Shylo Wiggs
Laura Wiggs
In Memory of
Donna Bailey
Jessica VanDerPoel
Joe Bilek
Carolyn Ellingwood
Judy Brown
Jacqulyn Wellenreiter
Marie Brown
Barbara Boulden
Rosemarie Curry
Ilene Robbins
Sue Grundfest
Sheena Berger
Teddi Berger
Boss & D.J. Edwards
Steven Benninga
Monty Gerber
Dr. Nicole Gerber
Hirtzel family felines
Dr. Cynthia Hirtzel
Bailey Lapinski
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Jack Macarol
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Marin Sanchez
Joleen Pillar
Delta Blocker
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Scruffy Engel
Richard & Donna Engel
Dot Gilbert
Negola’s Ark Veterinary
Hospital
Lady Jablonski
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Lucy Lay
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Falco Manion
Hospital
Domenica SbroccoCastellano
Irene Herz
Rupert Burnham
Holdener
Rachel Burnham
Holdener
Oakley Eriksen-Meier
Teton County PAL
Shadow Gillespie
Mary & Donald Knowles
Tux Jackson
Hospital
Crackers Lee
Hospital
Boo Boo Evans
Hospital
Buddy Gleaves
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Mina Jager
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Nicky Lemmenes
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Maddy Fahey
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Lady Gordon
Melvin Gordon
Moe Jemilo
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Maizey Lindsay
Sugar Farley
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Sami Graf
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Odie & Shorty Jenkins
Ann Jenkins
Chaos Ferrer
Jillian O’Donnell
Kobe Granard
Ryan Granard
Murphy Joyce
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Precious Fleissner
Joyce Fleissner
Sebastian Green
Green Bean Books, LLC
Twigs Kahn-Chiossone
Stephanie CalmensonGolden
Hannah Crockarell
Vicki Crockarell
Abby Fowler
Hospital
Benjamin Griffin
Kathy Teufel
Rueben Cruit
Neil Ross
Skye Gain
Denise & Jim Lilley
Princess Pickachu
Hamelink
Deborah Hamelink
Pepper Degidio
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Frankie Galgano
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Tuffy & Cody Hanck
Dr. Nancy Hanck
Pebbullz Delk
Hospital
Orville Galuskin
Greer Griffith
Quincey Harding
Katharine & Goody
Harding
Eloise Sundberg
Bonni Sundberg
Thomas Turner, Jr.
Frances Turner
Harriet Varnadore
Richard Varnadore
Isabelle Wagner
Dawn Crouse
Allan White Sr.
Annette King
Janice White
Gary DiGiacomo
Maureen Duffy
Gail O’Neill
Zandra Price
Marie Rodgers
Robert Chalmers
Carole Cook
Phyllis Marie Inzunza
David Unger
Carlton Jeffries
Steve & Laura Shumate
Sally Nosanchuk
Susan & Steve Belen
Dwayne Barry “Rusty”
Cox
Angel Paws, Inc.
Andrea O’Connor
Lucille Beaulieu
Norma Jean Cushman
Pamela Hurley
Catherine Peters
Joan Sare
Janice Damiano
Rhoda Axlerod
Steven Pfeiffer
Sandy Ford
Nick Miller
Kathryn Ozimek
Mark & Penny Pfeiffer
Mildred Serwold
Bob & Brenda Swanson
Frances Jean Ennis
Gretchen Snyder
Ida Gilmore
Tina King
Bob Hall
Robert Davidson
Marty Harris
Robert McDonald
Dan Provost
Lisa Callahan
Dr. Robert Rauch
Dr. Perry Opin
Alison Wigton
Meeghan Sinclair
John Wellington
Susan Wlezien
Frances Wlezien
In Memory of
Pets
Shalom Allison
Mary Ware
Polar Anderson
Lois Anderson
Olivia Anderson
Stephanie & Mark
Calmenson-Golden
Nell & Tess Armstrong
Lynette Armstrong
Cooper Bell
Dr. Stanley & Darlene
Diesch
Skylar Byrne
Mary Ann Byrne
Toto Chimera
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Bogey Clancy
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Fergie Cooper
Dr. Galen Cooper
Joy Corey
Carla Corey
Sunshine Devitt
Melissa Topper
A.K. DeVivo
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Shadow Dolce
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Butkus Galvin
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Rosie Gareau
Karen Kaufman
AJ Garvin
Hospital
Autumn Duitmann
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Hershey Gelfo
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Jenni Velvet Star Dunn
Linda Dunn
Libby Gerasch
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Sammy Harkins
Hospital
Bailey Kamper
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Minnie Marble
Karunaratne
Hospital
Harley Kopczyk
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Laddie Kowalski
Tender Paws
Bear Henderson
Dr. Paul McCullough
Waggie Hershman
Karen Kaufman
Murphy Hill
Dave & Theresa Hill
Tovey Mariano-Wright
Hospital
lowers
anxiety
and stress
levels
Apollo Krch
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Lisa Callahan
Pookie Hays
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Skylar Marciniak
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Megan Marier
Hospital
Meenu Kumar
Hospital
Maggie Lippert
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Athena Kyle-Bowlsbey
Amy Castner
Buster Looby
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Franny Martin
Katharine & Goody
Harding
Patches Lam
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Otis Lowy
Dr. Lois Abrams
Sadie Martin
Tender Paws
Dakota Lange
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Sampson Lullo
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Heidi McAuliffe
Dr. Scott Gallatin
21
PET PARTNERS WELCOMES
NEW BOARD LEADERSHIP
McD McDonald
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Beavis Nachel
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Kaylie McDonnell
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Chloe Nigohosian
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Mac McFarland
Donna McFarland
Penny O’Hare
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Boone, Glenn & Max
Orr
Susan & William Orr
Mason Parthemore
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Furby Pate
Dr. Scott Gallatin
increases
a sense of
community
Kasey Robinson
Malena Robinson
Bonnie Stakenas
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Abby Welch
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Rosie Rostand
Nancy Lippman
Cali Staveley
Elaine Staveley
Dusty Whitlow
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Diana Ruggiero
Christy Bartley
Rupert Stribling
Nancy Lippman
Boots Wilkes
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Maya May Russell
Julie Russell
Mesa Steyszak
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Jake Wilmoth
James Wilmoth
Rufus Ryerson
Marten Ryerson
Zoey Swartz
Linda Horbal
Sanity Woods
Hospital
Magy Sager
Hospital
Hunter Takashima
Donald Falk & Harold
Rains
Sam Sandine
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Suzy Terwilliger
Anne Terwilliger
LuLu Schmehl
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Snickers Timm
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Taz Schmid
Hospital
Bailey Tipner
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Midnight Schmidt
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Daisy Schoenecker
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Xander Schupek
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Domino McNaughten
Hospital
Misty O’Hern
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Angel Medel
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Shadow & Casper
Ojermark
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Mowgli Polen
Libby & David Estrin
Ethan & Karen Lazar
Fran Rivera
Isabel Schornstein
Tina Solomon
Lucille Metke
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Frosty Oliver
Dr. Paul McCullough
Belle Putz
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Tootsie Meyers
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Eddy Olivo
Hospital
Meegs Quinn
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Caterina Miller
Jerilyn Felton
Parker Monahan
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Mattie Moshlak
Hospital
22
Olsen family dogs
Thomas Olsen
Nugget Olson
Hospital
Emilie Richardson
James Richardson
Harlow Richardson
Lisa Zeiner
Jerry Robbins
Lynda Kelly
Mo Schwartz
Jase Schwartz
Molly Shaheen
Carol Shaheen
Gracie Sherman
Hospital
Dusty Smith-Faughn
Diane Smith-Faughn
Drake Soderlund
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Roscoe Soliday
Teton County PAL
Redmann Stake
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Willow Young
Laura Krowel
Dr. Mary Craig has risen
from Vice Chair to succeed
Brenda Bax as Pet Partners
Chairperson. Ms. Bax will
transition into her new role as
Ex-officio.
She is joined by four new
board members:
Agnes Arkydog Zollner
Carlsbad Pet Therapy
Association, Inc.
Katharine & Goody
Harding
Kay & Don Zollner
Gunther Zucconi
Noelle Welz
Tyson Tomlinson
Hospital
Simba Trolan
Hospital
Chad Baigini, Managing Director
at Harvard International
Ryan Granard, Vice President of
Cloud Operations at Adobe
Michael Sapp, Vice President
of Merchandising Solutions at
PetSmart.
Diana Kiriakides, Vice President
of Talent Acquisition at Experian
Sosa Trovato
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Sunset Umgelder
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Caesar Vaden
Hospital
Molly VanValkenburg
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Bubba Lily Vish
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Pickles Vodar
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Dr. Mary Craig, in one of her first official duties as new Chairperson of the
Pet Partners board, accepting an award from Milford, Connecticut Mayor
Ben Blake and the Board of Aldermen in recognition of Pet Partners leadership in the coordination of therapy dog teams at Jonathan Law High School
following the tragic murder of student Maren Sanchez in April. From left to
right: Lisa Uhlan and Bennie, Mayor Ben Blake, Arlene Kaye and Emma Lee
and Dr. Mary Craig
Rocket Voras
Dr. Scott Gallatin
Rusty Vosburg
Dr. Scott Gallatin
23
Xander
In Klamath Falls, Oregon:
He Seems To Hear What
People Are Feeling
Marcie and Rodney Beedy were not looking for another dog on
the day Xander found them. The Oregon couple already had six
Pugs and a Lab at home when Rodney came across a new resident at the Klamath Animal Shelter early last year. Up for adoption
was a young fur ball of a Pug, the soft tan color of tea with milk,
with a dark nose and plenty of wrinkles.
But there was something different about Xander. Pugs typically
have large, sensitive, expressive eyes that seem to telegraph emotion. Xander was blind, having suffered a head injury when he was
younger that caused him to lose both eyes.
Rodney didn’t see the dog’s limitations. What he saw instead
was a loving puppy with a strong and gentle heart; a “wonder dog”
destined for greatness.
Rodney called his wife.
“There’s something here you
need to see,” he told her.
Marcie wasn’t convinced she
could handle the challenge of
owning a blind dog. Then her
heart took over.
“It was love at first sight,”
Marcie said. “Then I held him in
my arms, and I was done. I just
melted.”
The young puppy – thought
to be about 10 months old
when he was abandoned at the
shelter – eased into his new
home with a little help from the
24
couple’s seven other dogs.
“Right after we brought Xander home, we noticed the other
dogs would take turns outside with him, helping him through the
doggie door until he could handle it on his own,” Marcie said.
It didn’t take long for the couple to realize Xander had a special
calling. Unlike some more spirited Pugs, Xander is even-tempered
and gentle. The couple knew he was a perfect candidate to be a
therapy dog.
They enrolled him at Double-C Dog Training (where Rodney is
a certified trainer) and he passed with flying colors. Marcie says
Xander was a natural at training, and performed better than most of
the sighted dogs. Rodney started taking Xander to work with him,
where he settled in as the school’s official greeter.
Diploma in hand (or paw), Xander then aced the Pet Partners
therapy dog test, and Marcie and Xander became a registered therapy animal team. Xander was about to turn tragedy into triumph.
Xander began making regular visits to hospitals, nursing homes
and schools, immediately bonding with everyone he met.
Marcie tells the story of a woman in hospice care who had fallen
in love with Xander during a visit and asked for him in her final days.
Every day until she passed away, Xander would sit quietly with
the woman, gently resting his head in her hands for as long as she
needed him to be there.
Marcie says some of Xander’s visits bring her to tears, as she
watches people melt at his nuzzling touch.
“This is his calling. People love him,” she says.
Even though he can’t see and also has lost part of his sense
of smell, Xander seems to have a sixth sense for those in need
of comfort. Whether a timid child or an elderly person in pain, he
always knows exactly what someone needs, and is more than willing to give. When Xander hears someone crying, absolutely nothing
will stand in his way as he scurries to help.
Marcie says, “He seems to hear what people are feeling.”
The Pet Partners team also is committed to the Klamath County
Chapter of Hands & Words Are Not For Hurting Project, which
works to reduce bullying and school violence. And Xander is even a
card-carrying member of the Sky Lakes Medical Center Guild, with
his own hospital ID and an open invitation to visit.
Marcie says Xander is the best dog she’s ever had, and she isn’t
alone in her admiration. Her Pet Partners Pug has become a local
and even international celebrity, with regular news coverage and
more than 8,500 followers on his Facebook page.
In fact, Xander is so good at his job, he was recently honored
with an AKC Humane Fund Award for Canine Excellence. The
national awards “honor five inspirational dogs that have made
significant contributions to their communities and really exemplify
the energy of the human-canine bond,”
according to the AKC.
Xander has a particular gift for relating
to children; cuddling with the ones who
already have a good case of puppy love and
gently easing the anxiety of those who are
afraid. One of a Pug’s defining features –
the curled-up tail – is a never-ending source
of amusement for the younger kids.
“They love to straighten it out and watch
it curl back up,” Marcie says.
Xander also will sometimes sit right
next to a child who is struggling to focus at
school – quietly offering a reason to engage in class, and patiently
listening as the child reads aloud to him.
And his uncanny ability to connect with children may pay off in
another way, with vulnerable kids who struggle to fit in with their
peers. The gentle, lovable Xander – who sees with his heart if not
his eyes – also carries an unspoken message: What does it mean
to be different? In Xander’s case, “different” means destined for
greatness.
“There will never be another one like him,” Marcie says. “He is
just an amazing dog.”
Contributed by Kris Betker
25
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Bellevue, WA 98005-2531
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Founded in 1977, Pet Partners is the leader in
demonstrating and promoting positive humananimal interactions. With the highest quality training
available for visiting teams, Pet Partners is the largest
national nonprofit evaluating multiple species for
field work. Our nearly 11,000 teams are comprised
of nine different species of animals that have been
studied and researched for their temperament and
effectiveness in providing support to people.
26

Major Rumayor and Lexy

Transcription

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