First Visit

Today was Shaynee's very first pet therapy visit....a day that Judy's been looking forward to for a very long time.   

Off we went to our designated facility...a very nice looking and feeling place where people with various stages of memory loss reside.  Having a background in custodial institutions, I know all too well what could go on between staff and resident in these kinds of places.  But no need to worry here.  It was obvious that the staff-members were caring and capable, and that the residents were treated well.

The facility's Activity Coordinator (Tamika) escorted us back through several activity areas where residents spend their mid-day hours. She introduced us one by one to each of them.

Most got a twinkle in their eye as they spied us coming into the room.  They were as excited as we'd hoped they'd be to see us.  And as expected, they mostly spoke of the dogs in their lives. One even thought Shaynee was her dog. There were others though who were unresponsive and uninterested...that is until Tamika called their name and placed their hand on Shaynee.  Then, they perked up. For a moment at least, you could see their minds engage.

Throughout it all, Shaynee's temperament was magnificent. Despite constant and unfamiliar stimulation, she was always the "proper lady" with the residents.

Here are a few pictures of Judy and Shaynee in action with my personal favorite residents:

All in all, it was a heartwarming time.