New recruits welcomed to St. John Ambulance Dog Therapy program

WELLINGTON CTY.

St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog division is pleased to welcome its newest members; Julie Wheeler-Bryant and her golden doodle “Molly” and Jacquie D’Abbenigno and her mixed breed dog named “Mister”.

These handler/dog teams underwent evaluation on Aug. 25 and went through a series of tests to evaluate their suitability as therapy dogs.

Many tests mimic conditions in nursing homes. A gentle, loving temperament with no aggressive tendencies are paramount qualities being sought in a good therapy dog.

“We applaud and congratulate our two newest members.  There is a great need for therapy dogs in our community and having two new recruits will certainly help better service this area. Therapy dogs ease the transition for many in the nursing home and it allows residents the ability to develop a bond with a dog from weekly visits,” said BJ Reynolds, co-coordinator for the program.  

“This makes such a difference to the many nursing home residents”.

A special thanks goes to Oscar Meyer, owner of Dreamland Pet and Equine, a local pet and equine supply store. The store is currently undergoing expansion and Oscar graciously volunteered the use of one of its rooms for the evaluation.

For those that would like to learn more about the St. John Ambulance therapy dog program or who are interested in pursuing this line of volunteer work, please contact BJ Reynolds at 519-846-5341 or Anna Meyers at 519-822-8999.  

“We still have a great need for more therapy dogs in our program, “ adds Reynolds.  “ It is the most rewarding volunteer work I’ve ever taken on.”

September 21, 2012