INTERACTIONS MAGAZINE Major Rumayor

Stories of lives improved by positive human & animal interactions. and Lexy

Serving Our Country at Fort Bragg

Around The Country P4 The Animals of Pet Partners P12 Xander P26 WINTER 2015 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 REGIS- TRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION BOARD LIST MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF Dr. Mary Craig, DVM, MBA, Chair CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL- Lynnette Eastlake, MBA, Vice Chair FREE, WITHIN THE STATE, 1-800-HELP-FLA. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSE- Raquel Lackey, CPA, CMA, CFE, Treasurer MENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY Jackie Gunby, Secretary THE STATE. CH3226. Jack Barron Jr.

Maryland: For the cost of copies and postage, Chad Baigini Office of the Secretary of State, State House, Winona Burgess, DVM, CPA, MBA Annapolis, MD 21401. Stacey Evans Dr. Aubrey Fine, EdD Mississippi: The official registration and financial information of Pet Partners may Ryan Granard be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary Dr. Rebecca A. Johnson, PhD, RN, FAAN, FNAP of State’s office by calling 1-888-236-6167. Diana Kiriakides Registration by the Secretary of State does not imply endorsement. Derrick Kraemer Mike Mossholder Missouri: Pet Partners is registered as ‘Pet Laird Pisto Partners Nonprofit Corporation’ in the state of Michael Sapp Missouri. Dr. Philip Tedeschi, MSSW New Jersey: INFORMATION FILED WITH THE Brenda Bax, Ex-Officio ATTORNEY GENERAL CONCERNING THIS CHARITABLE SOLICITATION and the percent- age of contributions received by the charity p.2 during the last reporting period that were HONORARY BOARD LIST dedicated to the charitable purpose MAY BE Sophie Engelhard Craighead, Chair OBTAINED FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL Marty Becker, DVM OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY BY CALLING 973-504-6215 and is available on the internet at Nan Bush www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ocp.htm#charity. Kathy Vignos Folson REGISTRATION WITH THE ATTORNEY GEN- Carol and Scott Glenn ERAL DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT. Linda Hackett New York: Office of the Attorney General, Chandi Heffner Department of Law, Charities Bureau, 120 Karen LeFrak Broadway, New York, NY 10271. Carolynn D. Loacker North Carolina: Financial information about Elise B. Lufkin this organization and a copy of its license are William McCulloch, DVM CONTENTS available from the State Solicitation Licensing Mary Tyler Moore Branch at 1-888-830-4989. The license is not an Victoria Newhouse endorsement by the state. Pet Partners is reg- Major Rumayor and Lexy 1 istered as ‘Pet Partners Nonprofit Corporation’ Jeannie Nordstrom in North Carolina. Annette de la Renta Jonah Shacknai How to Help 11 North Dakota: Pet Partners is registered as ‘Pet Partners Therapy Animals’ in North Dakota. Sarah W. Sweatt Irving Taylor, MD The Animals of Pet Parners 12 Pennsylvania: The official registration and Dave Underriner financial information of Pet Partners may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Bruce Weber The Delta Giving Society 21 State by calling toll-free, within Pennsylvania, Andrew Weil, MD 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply Betty White Xander 26 endorsement. Joanne Woodward Virginia: State Division of Consumer Affairs, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Ser- vices, PO Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218. PUBLICATION CREDITS Departments

Washington: Charities Division, Office of the Editor: Glen Miller Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olym- Contributors: Kris Betker, Dr. Aubrey Fine, SPC Around The Country 4 pia, WA 98504-0422, 1-800-332-4483. Taryn Hagerman, Dr. Marguerite O’Haire, Paula Scott, Maj. Christina Rumayor West Virginia: Residents may obtain a Saying Goodbye 18 summary of the registration and financial Graphic Design: Wolken Communica documents from the Secretary of State, State Cover Photography: Sgt. William Reinier Honor and Memorial Donations 22 Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305.

REGISTRATION WITH A STATE AGENCY DOES Pet Partners NOT CONSTITUTE OR IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, 425.679.5500 APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THAT [email protected] STATE. www.petpartners.org Thank You and Happy Holidays

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 eval- uators 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 Part- ners teams can support individuals in the criminal justice system. grateful to the more 11,000 teams out there in hospitals, hospices, Our curriculum is expanding and our commitment to the highest schools, VA Centers and wherever we are needed, every single day quality training and continued education is strengthening. We want and one million times a year. Thank you for all that you do to touch our teams to have the best tools possible when it comes to serving lives and improve health. You truly make the world a better place. a very diverse population that includes children, adults, people with Catherine “Annie” Magnant special needs, veterans and those approaching end of life. It is an President and CEO, Pet Partners exciting time to be part of the Pet Partners movement. We are so

1 Major Rumayor and Lexy Serving our Country at Fort Bragg

It was a frigid North Carolina morning when Lt. Col. Lexy joined the The team has even visited the Child Development Center on 82nd Airborne Division Paratroopers lining up for a four-mile run. At base to educate young children about responsible dog care, and 6 a.m., only Lexy seemed oblivious to the chill in the air. She had an also to help kids who may be afraid of dogs become more comfort- advantage: under her Army combat uniform, the German Shepherd able around them. was covered in fur. Rumayor saw the value in Animal-Assisted Therapy years ago, Lexy is Fort Bragg’s first therapy dog. That morning, the four- legged officer happily greeted many of the 15,000 paratroopers as they gathered to celebrate Memorial Day. Maj. Christina Rumayor, the 82nd Airborne Division’s psychia- trist and Lexy’s trainer, owner, and handler, says Animal-Assisted Therapy can play a huge role in easing the counseling process for “Therapy is a hard place soldiers who are experiencing stress. Rumayor and Lexy are a registered Pet Partners team. to walk into ... It’s very “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 scary a lot of times, and 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.’” there’s stigma attached to Relaxation is crucial to a soldier’s mental health, and Lexy has it. Soldiers may initially been trained to recognize and respond to elevated anxiety levels. When psychotherapy sessions bring out raw emotion, Lexy is able be afraid or anxious, but to fill a role that doctors can’t—providing physical reassurance. Lexy and other therapy dogs can offer a comforting touch, pat or when they see a therapy hug in a completely appropriate way, which in turn, can help calm a patient and make it easier to focus during therapy sessions. dog there, their first “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 thought is ‘well, this can’t extremely calming for many people,” Rumayor said. “Her purpose in the therapy sessions is very specific to what the patient needs.” be such a bad place.’” 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. and wrote a policy in 2011 requesting to initiate the Animal-As- “Without a doubt Lexy has made a difference,” he said. “It’s sisted Therapy Program through Womack Army Medical Center at very easy with Lexy and Maj. Rumayor.” Fort Bragg. At that time, Lexy was already registered through the When his doctor initially referred him to work with Lexy, Swols North Carolina branch of Pet Partners as a therapy dog. In 2013, the was openly skeptical, but it didn’t take long for Lexy’s calm disposi- policy passed. tion and attentiveness to win him over. “Treatment with Lexy and other therapy dogs is a great ancillary “There is so much help out there for PTSD, and you just have treatment to give to soldiers as a way to get better,” she said. “The to find what works for you,” he said. “Lexy was there, and she important part is giving great care to our paratroopers and soldiers.” helped. It worked for me.” Though the Fort Bragg program is relatively new, the bond

2 Photography: Sgt. William Reinier between Rumayor and Lexy spans half a decade. cope, Rumayor makes sure she also has time to play; either with Lexy was one of several German Shepherd puppies Rumayor peers at a doggy daycare, or with some of the paratroopers during visited while stationed in Hawaii. At only eight weeks old, she base visits. was already a very curious and gentle puppy; both traits Rumayor “I make sure she gets time to just be a regular dog,” Rumayor wanted in a companion. From that day on, the pair were family. 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 pow- erful 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 Lexy- the-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 through- out 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 veter- ans 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 However, Rumayor also saw a role for Lexy within her larger four-mile footrace required a little extra motivation – Lt. Col. Lexy family: the Army. She was convinced Lexy could help bring encour- was the go-to boost the troopers needed. Running at the crack of agement, joy and a sense of normalcy for soldiers. dawn is a whole lot easier with a Lexy-induced smile on your face. “I think for many of them, she brings pieces of home that they miss when they live far away,” Rumayor said. “Dogs have an Special thanks to Maj. Christina Rumayor, and SPC Taryn Hagerman unconditional type of love that also brings them comfort. They don’t for this article. know what your rank is, and they don’t care.” For as hard as Lexy works to help paratroopers and soldiers

3 AROUND THE COUNTRY PET PARTNERS TEAMS AT WORK

saying she wanted to take the bunny back to her room. She said Northeast she loved him. There was truly a bond formed that day. Margery looked very sad when the interaction had to end, but Elin MacKinnon and Nemo she told Jennifer, “I will work hard not to be sad if you promise Steuben, Maine to bring him back to see me at least one more time.” Jennifer promised without hesitation. Nemo is a five-year-old Golden Retriever The next time Jennifer took Mr. Mini to the home, she made who visits the Henry D. Moore Library in sure to remind the director how important it was for them to visit Steuben, Maine each week. He and his with Margery. Unfortunately Margery had taken a turn for the partner Elin are a newly registered Pet worse, but the director said she wanted Jennifer to know how Partners team and volunteer through Silent special the visit with Mr. Mini was and she spoke of it many times. Sidekicks, Maine’s first Animal-Assisted Although the patient was dying, the director asked Jennifer to take Therapy organization. When six-year-old Mr. Mini to her. Ciara comes to read to Nemo each week Margery was struggling for every breath and Jennifer worried at the library, Nemo recognizes her as she that one of those breaths would be her last. approaches, thumping his tail loudly on the floor. Ciara spends a “Margery, it’s me and Mr. Mini,” Jennifer said. “We promised few minutes greeting and patting, brushing or hugging Nemo, then we would come back to see you one more time, and here we are.” gets down to business and reads her book from beginning to end. She laid Mr. Mini on his pet bed next to Margery in her bed. Sometimes she pats Nemo as she reads. Ciara loves to tell stories Jennifer took Margery’s hand and helped her stroke Mr. Mini’s about her adventures with her dog, but one day announced: “I tried head. As if he understood his role, the rabbit moved closer so her to read to my dog Ariel, but no matter what I do, she will not sit hand could reach him more easily. still and listen – like Nemo does.” She also likes to share what she Jennifer said she stroked the woman’s beautiful red hair and imagines Nemo is thinking, and one day after showing him a picture said, “Goodbye, Margery. I am so thankful we came back today of himself, she said, “he thinks he’s much more handsome in real to see you. I am thankful this was the day we chose,” as tears ran life!” down her face.

Stephanie Olson and Houdini Midwest Peewaukie, Wisconsin At Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, the Jennifer Smith and Mr. Mini Cooper Volunteer Services Department receives Deephaven, Minnesota numerous patient requests for therapy dog visits. The program offers positive “I kept my promise today. I feel proud in therapeutic experiences to help minimize that, but a bit heartbroken too, all at the stress in the hospital environment, provide distraction from illness same time.” That’s how Jennifer Smith and hospital procedures, and assist in scheduled physical therapy began to tell her story about her therapy visits. rabbit Mr. Mini Cooper and a favorite patient. Pet Partners team Stephanie Olson and her therapy dog Houdini The first day Jennifer took Mr. Mini to have been with the program since 2010, giving countless hours of visit patients in the Minnesota Masonic volunteer time to help comfort patients and families at the hospital. Home, she felt an instant connection with Stephanie spoke about one particularly memorable experience. Margery, a red-haired 94-year-old woman “Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin is an amazing place to receive with a smile that lit up around her oxygen tube. Mr. Mini and pediatric care, but it is not home,” she said. “If you have ever Margery sat together through the afternoon. She said she was had to stay in a hospital, you know that going home is a priority.” such an animal lover and missed having animals in her life. She kept The team had been asked to visit a young boy in a wheelchair but

4 their schedule kept them otherwise engaged until after he was time to warm up to him. discharged. Stephanie then learned the boy had happily waited past Some of Sarah’s students have a tough time writing, sitting his discharge time just to visit with Houdini. And after 30 minutes and listening to stories being read. However with Auggie present, with the dog, the boy was still not interested in going home. “That everyone either sat at the table or on the floor by Auggie to listen says it all,” said Stephanie. “What child wouldn’t be eager to go to a story. One particular student who occasionally screams home, see friends and family and play with their own toys?” during class did not scream for the entire time Auggie was in the classroom. Another boy usually refuses to follow directions, but Jean Martell and Colby while holding the leash with Penny he collected his work, put it into his backpack and continued to smile while walking to and waiting Maple Grove, Minnesota for the bus. Sarah said this is not a small accomplishment for a child Jean Martell received a request with his challenges, concluding, “transitions can be a difficult time to take her therapy dog Colby in my classroom, but with Auggie, I saw the joy that was displayed to see a hospice patient. The by my students beginning to form their relationship. I’m hoping woman was so pleased and that we can continue with ‘Team Auggie’ once a week for the next spent a lot of time petting Colby school year.” and talking to him. She shared stories about dogs she’d had in KC Arnold and Daisy her lifetime and said she was a true dog lover, but that it had been a Ocean Springs, Mississippi 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 Daisy and Kathleen “KC” Arnold visit a local she said that was fine; she just enjoyed watching him. She also hospital, local public libraries and a clinic that wanted her grandson to meet Colby, so the team returned two days specializes in diabetes. The clinic – where later. During that visit, the patient asked that Colby be placed on the they recently started treating children with bed with her; she was thrilled and put her arms around him in a big diabetes aged three and up – is where they hug. They snuggled together for quite some time. The woman made have had the greatest impact. Daisy’s role is soft noises as she held him and told Jean, “I’m purring!” After to help children accept the use of different visiting a few more times, Jean learned of the woman’s passing devices needed to treat their illness. The when the patient’s daughter contacted her to ask the team to attend children use play devices (such as insulin the wake. “The whole family greeted us with smiles and petted pumps without needles) to practice insulin injections. Riley, a four- Colby, saying how much we had meant to their mom,” Jean said. year-old girl who was diagnosed with diabetes about six months On display with all of the family photos was a picture of the woman ago, was introduced to Daisy on the first visit. The option of insulin with Colby. “It was so heartwarming and satisfying to be able to pump therapy was discussed, but the idea of a device was a bit fulfill this wish for this wonderful woman,” she said. 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 Penny Sorenson and Auggie “Daisy” appointments. Diabetes is a tough disease but Daisy’s Muskegon, Michigan 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

5 incapable of having children. After Donna adopted Susie they Southeast formed a close bond that helped them both to heal. Donna was instrumental in passing “Susie’s Law” in North Carolina, legislation Dina Garland and Cloie which gives harsher penalties to those who are convicted of animal Black Mountain, North Carolina abuse. The team’s story inspires the people they visit to never lose hope, no matter how unbearable their current situation. Even though Cloie, a Wirehaired Fox Terrier, does not speak English, Rebecca Davis and Oliver she is helping elementary students Hammond, Louisiana in speech therapy articulate more clearly. Teamed with speech language An endless supply of hugs and kisses pathologists Beth Eckstein and awaits Oliver as he enters Maddie’s Cortney Pauly, Cloie and her owner speech and language therapy session. Dina Garland get to show off their “Hey baby,” she says to the large tricks and agility maneuvers each Golden Retriever as she leads the way week at Black Mountain Primary School. During most sessions, the to their special reading time together. children get to choose one of a dozen tricks for Cloie to perform – Maddie participates in an Animal- such as ‘twirl’ or ‘bow’ – and then have to say it in a sentence. The Assisted Therapy program offered at commands contain sounds the students are working to pronounce the Southeastern Louisiana University correctly, such as ‘s’ in sit, ‘tr’ in treat, ‘ch’ in fetch, and ‘z’ in puzzle. Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic. Five students in kindergarten and first grade have been Oliver and his handler, Rebecca Davis, an Associate Professor/ working with Cloie each Friday during speech therapy. At first, Audiologist at the university, work in collaboration with Holly Smith, several of the students were difficult to understand, but after three Speech-Language Pathologist/Clinical Instructor, and her student months they have all made improvements in their speech and clinicians, to incorporate Animal-Assisted Therapy into Maddie’s language. For example, Cara, a kindergartener working on her ‘l’ speech and language intervention. Maddie, an outgoing and sound, told the speech therapist after a session, “Cloie has curly energetic nine-year-old, has Down syndrome which has caused hair like me.” Cara correctly produced three ‘ls’ without being her to have significant communication and literacy delays. Her reminded about tongue placement. Speech therapists are always speech is difficult to understand and her ability to comprehend looking for creative ways to get kids to practice their speech and and produce language also is affected. It is typical to utilize books language targets. Cloie and Dina provide a fun, playful environment and literacy activities during speech therapy sessions, as many where the students are highly motivated to say, “speak, Cloie, children with communication delays are at risk for literacy disorders. Speak!” over and over until Cloie, and they, get it right. Additionally, books are used to target various language skills, such as vocabulary, problem solving, and language comprehension. Donna Lawrence and Susie Before working with Oliver, Maddie was resistant to literacy activities during her speech therapy sessions. Reading with High Point, North Carolina Oliver has dramatically increased her motivation to read, leading The American Humane Association Hero to improved communication and literacy skills. Oliver visits her Dog Awards honor “ordinary” dogs who do hour-long sessions for 15-20 minutes, during which Maddie reads a extraordinary things. Pet Partners is proud story to Oliver using a book that has been modified using pictures/ to announce that the 2014 Top Hero Dog symbols to support her reading. She associates reading with Oliver winner is Susie, a registered Pet Partners and practices the book with her clinician between his visits to her therapy team with her handler Donna sessions. Once Maddie has finished the book, she is rewarded with Lawrence of High Point, North Carolina. an opportunity to give commands to Oliver. He gladly performs Susie was just a puppy when she tricks for her, such as “sit,” “shake” and “high five” in return for endured a horrible abusive situation; she treats. Maddie and Oliver have developed a bond and both benefit was beaten, set on fire and left for dead. from their time together: While Oliver helps motivate Maddie to Fortunately, she was rescued by a local animal shelter and treated read, she showers him with love and affection. for her wounds. Meanwhile, Donna herself was recovering from her own near-death experience from a dog attack that left her

6 Pet Partners Teams at Operation Purple Camp Nashville, Tennessee Southwest David Boehner and Bear McGregor, Texas

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 & Operation Purple Camp is part of a program offered by the White Hospital, including the emergency room and all children’s National Military Family Association. Families of wounded military areas. They also visit the rehabilitation department where Bear personnel enjoy free residential camps that strive to help kids deal demonstrates the use of the treadmill, inspiring many patients to with the stress that result from their parents’ active military duty. “give it a try.” During one visit when Bear was on the treadmill, The camps are held in various locations across the country and Pet David heard an elderly woman nursing a broken hip remark, “If he Partners therapy animal teams are always asked to participate. can do it, so can I.” The next morning, with assistance, the patient Camps were held two separate weekends in October at the took her first steps on the treadmill. Pet Partners congratulates YMCA Camp in Nashville and seven teams volunteered. Pictured David and Bear for this high honor and their dedication! 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, Suzanne Powell and Handsome Harley Rebecca Troutt & Jesse, Cheryl Sague & Kinsey, and Debbie Alamo Heights, Texas Ament de Nunez & Tashi. The teams were on hand to greet families Suzanne Powell and Handsome upon arrival and petting the dogs was the perfect icebreaker. Harley the Poodle mix volunteer One young girl was quite shy and sat apart from the other for the San Antonio International children. All the kids at camp are experiencing difficult situations Airport (SAT) “Pups and Planes” with their parents’ deployment, but this girl was even more program designed to de-stress despondent because her parent had passed away. Within a short anxious passengers. SAT is only time Jenyfer’s dog Alexis had her smiling and talking about her the fifth airport to have a visiting pets. Soon, the little girl was interacting with the other teams and animal program and it was recently introducing the incoming families to the dogs. presented with an award from the Airport Council International The Camp gives the children an opportunity to spend quiet, North America. Suzanne reports, “We have met more than quality time with their families, but it also allows them the space 400 travelers from all over the United States and at least four to just be a kid. The Pet Partners teams helped as a soothing, foreign countries; all with amazing stories to share. All encounters comforting, non-judgmental presence. 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

7 others.” One of Suzanne’s most memorable encounters was comfort and happiness is easy,” Kathy said. “Having seen firsthand meeting Amanda, a pretty 17-year-old girl using a wheelchair. She the difference our dogs have made for the youth here at the shelter chatted with Amanda, her mother and sister while they waited for is what it is all about.” A shelter graduate also spoke during the their luggage in the baggage section. Amanda’s constant smile was event to honor the Wootens, sharing her memories from visits with contagious. Suzanne enjoys her volunteer work very much and says Rodrigo seven years ago. The 22-year-old woman said she still of her airport visits, “I know of no better way to share what Harley saves his trading card. has to give to so many people at one time.” 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 On October 11 – 12, 2014 Pet Partners hosted a Team Evaluator asked to visit a hospice patient who Symposium in San Pedro, California to collaborate with was not doing well. The hospice licensed evaluators across the country, sharing ideas and input group felt the woman, a life-long that identified common best practices and challenges. The dog lover, might benefit from a visit recommendations for strategic action will help guide Pet Partners’ from Honey Bee. She was drifting in direction for the upcoming year, refining and enhancing our and out of sleep when they arrived, currently recognized gold standard Therapy Animal Program. The so Janey placed Honey Bee on a small blanket next to her. Honey productive meeting resulted in many ideas from our hard-working Bee seemed to sense the situation because she immediately lay evaluators in the field, including recommendations for additional down and put her head on the woman’s thigh. They stayed for continuing education, suggestions for improvements in evaluation nearly an hour while Janey occasionally sang soft songs and Honey procedures, and enthusiasm for plans to encourage and enable Bee remained completely still by the woman’s side. Two days later, more frequent communication between all volunteer groups. The the hospice contacted Janey to say the woman had passed away event was generously underwritten by the Mill River Foundation. and that her children were comforted when they heard a gentle little dog had been with their mother near the end of her journey. Sue Grundfest and Love Dog Adventures Las Vegas, Nevada Kathy and Chuck Wooten and Rodrigo Huntington Beach, California Sue Grundfest began visiting Casa del Sol two years ago with her poodle Kirby The Wootens were presented with the (now deceased). This group home for Inspirational Award this summer for their multiply challenged youth now has service at the Huntington Beach Youth several therapy animal teams visiting Shelter. Elsa Greenfield, Executive Director, the home regularly. Sue manages said, “Kathy and Chuck Wooten and Rodrigo Love Dog Adventures, a Pet Partners have been a critical part of helping our Community Partner in Las Vegas, youngsters feel at home here. They have Nevada. steadfastly visited every two weeks for eight One young girl at Casa del Sol at first years.” Several other Pet Partners teams stayed in her room on a mattress on also visit the facility and Kathy is responsible for coordinating the the floor. She did not want to be touched and every aspect of her visits and making sure the children have positive interactions with life depended upon people touching her — to eat, bathe and dress. the animals. She also helps teach the youngsters how to properly Through great patience and identifying the right dogs and handlers, care for their own animals. “Sharing our dogs with those that need this young girl has learned to “be gentle.” She has learned the

8 joy of a soft caress not only of a furry friend but a human friend. Then one day the woman stopped coming down to the She has learned to look into a person’s eyes with clarity and community room for social hour. She had suffered a stroke, and understanding. She has learned how to laugh and communicate Phyllis thought they would not be seeing her again. But the following through her body what she is feeling. She has learned to be calm week, the staff brought her down in a wheelchair. The woman did not and patient and loving. She has learned to love. 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 Rich Schad & Emma did some rough patting. Kaylee sat quietly and then reached up and Louisville, Colorado 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 Emma the Golden past. In broken language, the woman told Kaylee how much she Retriever lay on the bed had missed her all these years. “It touched my heart how much she of a cancer patient; a missed her dog and how calm she became with Kaylee’s response,” gentleman who was Phyllis said. “It also touched my heart that Kaylee knew her even nearing the end of his life. though she had changed in appearance and demeanor. Kaylee knew Emma’s tail wagged gently her friend.” and she stared lovingly at the man as he scratched Lisa Stagner and Boise behind her ears. Pet Partners therapy animals are the lubricant for conversation, and this patient opened up to Emma, to Emma’s Las Vegas, Nevada handler Rich Schad, and to his family in his hospital room. An effective Animal-Assisted Therapy “We think we have so much time in the beginning and then we’re program requires considerable attention to the thrown off course by the diagnosis. Then there was the planning of matches that are made: the match between what comes next. Will there be surgery, will there be chemo, and handler and animal, the match between facility how will that fit into my days that used to be filled with stuff? I just and program, the match between client and did what I had to do, to give life another day. You know what I mean animal, the match between human therapist, handler and animal, Emma?” He looked at Emma while he spoke, and Emma appeared and the match between need and skill set. At first, a very small to nod her head. Holding Emma’s head in his two gnarled hands, dog was paired with one particular child for a private session at the he laughed with his lungs and throat, Emma with her eyes and tail. Children’s Therapy Center in Las Vegas, NV. The child had very little His family members sat silently crying while he continued. “Darn mobility and was not very verbal. But little Petey the Poodle was it, something changed — cancer made a move and I was caught just not up for the job. The child was then introduced to a Golden off guard. I need more time. I hardly felt the pressure to talk about Retriever named Boise with his handler Lisa Stagner, creating the my life; the lives I shared, to my kids growing up, all those new little perfect therapy partnership. Boise learned new skills to work with ones, and most of all, have those talks with my soul mate.” the child, such as lying on a swing and serving as a human pillow. He sobbed violently into Emma’s fur and Emma nuzzled him back The young boy soon learned to trust his new friend and was so while Rich tried to keep the tears at bay. There are many lessons to motivated that his therapy sessions just flew by, with achievement be gained from volunteering with a therapy animal and on that day after achievement. Rich was reminded that time is slipping by for each of us every day. “I can lift my head to see Boise.” We should all keep in mind the things that are important to us and “I can stretch all the way out to lean on Boise.” remember to share the details of our journey with our loved ones. “I can open my hands all the way out to stroke Boise.” “I can laugh and giggle and smile and show emotion because I Phyllis O’Boyle and Kaylee love Boise.” Waldport, Oregon Boise is now a constant member of the therapy team and works with this child weekly. The boy now looks forward to his therapy Kaylee the Havanese has been working with sessions, even if they are painful or stretch his mind and body further her handler Phyllis O’Boyle for three years. than he ever imagined. 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.

9 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 assis- tance 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

10 HOW TO HELP Make a Donation Recurring gifts are an easy Pet Partners relies on donations made by individuals, way to make a big impact. foundations, corporations and thousands of Your love for animals is second nature. volunteers to provide program services. Demand for Now, supporting Pet Partners can be just as our services is much greater than we can provide automatic. Creating a recurring gift is convenient, and your support will help those waiting for us to customizable, and environmentally friendly. Most reach them. Join as a member by donating $50 important, recurring gifts ensure a steady source of or more and receive our publication Pet Partners support for Pet Partners’, enabling us to continue Interactions magazine and other membership providing the highest standard of human-animal benefits. Or consider making a gift in honor or interactions to improve the physical, emotional and memory of a pet, family member or friend. psychological lives of those we serve.

Pet Partners relies on corporate sponsors who Ways To Make A Donation help make our mission possible. Companies 1. Online at www.petpartners.org/donate interested in becoming members of our Caring 2. By phone by calling 425.679.5517 Company program please visit 3. By mail to 875 124th Ave NE #101, www.petparters.org/caringcompanies. Bellevue, WA 98005 4. Select Pet Partners as the recipient of your workplace giving

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 [email protected] or call 425.679.5502 for details.

11 The Animals of Pet Partners By: Aubrey H. Fine Ed.D. CA Poly State University and Marguerite E. O’Haire Ph.D. Purdue University

Animal-assisted interventions and more specifically animal-assisted In discussing how to select various therapy animals, it is activities have seen a tremendous growth in the past couple of critical to point out that there are certain expectations that decades. Public interest in animal-assisted interactions seems all therapy animals need to demonstrate in general. There are to have been an additional impetus for the growth that is being three variables that we strongly suggest for all of the species witnessed. Personally (Aubrey) my early involvement in the field that we will be discussing. They are as follows: began using a variety of species of animals including small and 1. Without question, the most important behavior in a good large birds in my work with children. That was actually about 40 therapy animal is based on a personality trait we could call being years ago when these animals were my pet partners even before I affiliative to people. In essence, these are animals that when began incorporating dogs. Today we see close to 10,000 registered they see a person are extremely receptive and responsive. 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 2. The animals must have early socialization with humans. These tenth of that total. That doesn’t imply that dogs are better therapy early experiences will help them become very comfortable with animals, but only that they are the most widely employed. We human interaction. both appreciate the position that many species could be utilized 3. The animals must demonstrate consistent behavior that will in therapeutic interactions, if they possess certain traits that make allow the handler to feel confident about the animal’s interaction them desirable and safe to interact with humans. It is ironic that with people. different people seem to not only be attracted to certain animals, but they also seem more curious in interacting with specific All therapy animals should also be screened periodically by a species. Irv Robbins was correct in saying that “Not everyone likes veterinarian for health checks. all our flavors, but each flavor is someone’s favorite.” The same is true about our therapy animals. 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.

12 DOGS CATS 9,912 in service 198 in service

Kathleen Duffy with her therapy Sheltie Windy visiting residents at Christa Shores Assisted Bev Oakes’ therapy cat Junior comforts hospital patient Andrew Lee in San Antonio, TX Living Community in Silverdale, WA, photo by Mary Burlingame Cats can be tremendous visiting therapy animals. There are several As noted earlier, dogs are the most utilized therapy animals. There variables that should be considered. Cats should be comfortable are numerous behaviors that would be expected from a dog who with being handled and held. Some of the desired behaviors was part of a therapy team. In general these dogs need to have a should be the cat appears relaxed with body handling and being good temperament style and enjoy human interaction and touch. appropriately touched all over. The cat should be comfortable They need to be extremely social and friendly but need to respond being groomed, pet, picked up, and gently held. The also should in a gentle and calm manner. Therapy dogs who visit a variety of be relaxed wearing a harness and leash. Since these cats will be settings must be able to handle unusual sights, sounds, and smells. transported to various locations they need to be comfortable and The dogs need to be obedient and be able to regain self-control relaxed during car rides and at ease in new environments (when after being excited. They also need to be able to be attentive to visiting new locations). The following behaviors identify what their handler and not demonstrate anxiety in novel situations. Like individuals should expect to see in a relaxed cat: slow blinks or other animals used in therapy, these dogs need to be able to feel closed eyes, slow, gentle tail sway or the tail may be still, relaxed comfortable being petted, and interacted with. ears, positioned forward, relaxed body, good appetite, and relaxed and comfortable meeting other cats, dogs, and strangers.

13 EQUINES RABBITS 202 in service 78 in service

Marsha Craig’s miniature therapy horse Lily made a tough day a little better for patient Luis Young Pet Partners handler Lillian Pringle shares the affection of her rabbit Peanut with Fernando da Silva Batemarque at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, MA, photo by Chitose Levert Avery at the Breath of Life Adult Day Service in Brainerd, MN Suzuki, reprinted with permission from the Boston Herald Rabbits have long been a favorite pet due to their soft fur, big eyes, Horses are gorgeous, graceful and loving beings that can be and enchanting hop. They are very similar to guinea pigs in terms wonderful registered therapy animals. It is suggested that horses of their diet and care requirements. One notable difference is that used in therapy should be between 6-15 years of age. Older horses cradling a rabbit or restraining them will lead to kicking, so should typically have been exposed to things that younger horses may be avoided. Instead, rabbits should be allowed to rest comfortably not have experienced. Unfortunately younger horses may be more on a person’s lap while being fed vegetables or petted. They also guarded to the uncertain behaviors found within the human world. require time and space to frolic and explore, which can provide a For children, miniature horses or ponies are better choices because wonderful venue for observation and discussion. Rabbits with a they are less threatening in size. Miniature horses make great ther- fear of humans are not suitable as therapy animals. One sign of a apy companions and are often used on hospital visits. rabbit that may be well suited to therapy is that they approach and Horses should possess a certain temperament style to be a will eat from the hand of a human. Early socialization with different selected for therapy. Overall, they must be calm, stand quietly humans can enhance suitability to therapy. 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.

14 BIRDS GUINEA PIGS 29 in service 22 in service

Dan Lee’s therapy Macaw Buddy being read to by a third grade student in Mesa, AZ Niki Vettel and her therapy guinea pig Ralphie help clients at the Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller Center in Boston, MA Birds are beautiful creatures and can make wonderful therapy companions. I (Aubrey) began using birds in therapy sessions Guinea pigs are small, furry critters from the rodent family. They are about 30 years ago. Birds that are young and socialized early may commonly confused with hamsters, but are differentiated by the make strong candidates as therapy birds. Birds that are hand fed fact that they do not have a tail and they are diurnal (waking during seem to be more comfortable interacting with individuals. An ideal the day). They are a popular choice for children and school class- bird would be one that doesn’t startle easily and appears to enjoy rooms due to their small size and endearing demeanor. They make human companionship. The selected bird has to be pretty steady adorable squeaks when they want food and are known for “pop- and will not likely get startled. Introduce the bird slowly to therapy, corn,” or hopping happily around when they are in a good mood. and make sure that bird doesn’t seem to experience anxiety. Birds Guinea pigs are social creatures and therefore should always live that like to be handled are preferable but it is suggested that the with a pal to provide environmental enrichment. They are prey ani- handler be in control of all interactions for the safety of the bird mals and can be skittish if they are not socialized to humans from and the client. Those individuals that are considering birds need a young age. Children can learn about empathy with guinea pigs by to appreciate that birds who get a great deal of attention early in learning how to best approach and handle them. Guinea pigs will their lives will expect and need to receive similar attention as they not eat unless they feel safe and secure, which can be an excel- age. Cockatiels, small parrots, and lovebirds make good candidates lent signal to children that they are engaging in an appropriate and (e.g. dusky conures). Some cockatoos make viable candidates but effective manner with the animal. Always have snacks on hand for one needs to be cautious of excessive screeching. Strong training a guinea pig, such as grass or carrots. Another suggested activity is is necessary for birds to work in therapeutic settings especially sitting and gently cradling the guinea pig close to one’s chest and because they have to wear a harness and a leash. 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 ther- apy, 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.

15 LLAMAS/ALPACAS PIGS 21 in service 6 in service

Niki Kuklenski’s therapy llama Cayetano elicits a smile from Seth and Margaret Jane Gerou Donna Latella’s therapy pig Penelope affectionately greets an admirer at an adult day in Bellevue, WA, photo by Dani Weiss center in Guilford, CT Llamas and alpacas are unconventional therapy animal choices, but There has been a proliferation of pot-bellied pigs as companion ones that have brought joy and comfort to many individuals. Llamas animals in recent years. If cared for appropriately, a pig can provide loom large at nearly six feet tall and between 300 and 450 pounds. a wonderful therapy animal partner. They are smart, trainable, clean, Alpacas grow to roughly half that size. Training and socialization and affectionate. They may be a suitable choice for clients who are essential to facilitate successful interactions in therapeutic are allergic to cats and dogs. However, pigs require specialized settings. The use of a halter and lead will enable smooth facility enrichment and care. Without appropriate space and activities, visits. Integrated food rewards allow clients to experience positive pigs may become food aggressive or destructive. These behaviors interactions with these unique creatures. Carefully monitoring the can be minimized by ensuring appropriate spaces for digging and safety and security of the animal is essential to preventing fearful natural behavior outdoors, as well as positive reinforcement for behaviors such as spitting. Common therapy activities include desired behaviors indoors. The choice to include a pig should be feeding, grooming, leading, and engaged observation. 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.

16 RATS 2 in service 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

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. experience is equally beneficial Rats tend to be an underrated and often overlooked choice for a and safe. When all of these factors therapy animal. They are incredibly smart and social. Once social- ized with humans, rats will eagerly climb on a client’s shoulders and provide comforting companionship. Their intelligence makes them are taken into consideration, the an excellent candidate for creative enrichment activities such as mazes and games. They even enjoy being gently tickled and once outcomes can enrich the lives of accustomed to it will follow a person’s hand around to receive this fun interaction. To enhance therapeutic outcomes for the human many who are touched. and the animal, ensure that rats are provided with thoughtful and varied environmental enrichment such as toys, tunnels, and climb- Acknowledgements: The authors would like to thank Kateena Jones ing opportunities. 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.

17 Saying Goodbye. We thank our therapy animals who touched many lives during their years of service.

April 1, 2014 - August 31, 2014 HARLOW, Golden Retriever, Charles and Michael POGO, Poodle, Fran Rudy, CA RETIRED Richardson, WA POKEY, Jack Russell Terrier, Chris A. Doyle, MA HEIDI, Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie), Linda David, CA PONY, Golden Retriever, Edward P. Allen, RI AGNES, Terrier Mix, Kay Zollner, OR HULA, Labrador Retriever, Tina Jones, CO POPS, Pug, Peggy Mattingly, AZ ANNIE, Golden Retriever, Deanna M. Tuley, CO JELLY, Golden Retriever, Elle Kahler, CO PUNKY, Golden Retriever, Lynn Huizinga, CA BABE, Golden Retriever, Jennifer Donner, NM JERRY, Golden Retriever, Dean Robbins, NH RANGER, Rough Collie, Terry Tauber, IL BAILEY, Golden Retriever, Amy McCullough, CO JETTA, Labrador Retriever Mix, Christine A. Spaetzel, OH REILLY, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Charlotte BALOO, Newfoundland, Pamela L. Kroll, WI KATIE, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Anne M. Przybyla, CO Champ, NY BANDI, Golden Retriever, Rita J. Hartman, AZ KIKI, French Bulldog, Marilyn M. Edwards, OH RHODI, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Lynn L. Winston, AZ BARKLEY, Bullmastiff, Barbara Dietz, AZ LADDIE, Rough Collie, Brooke Kowalski, TN RILEY, Terrier Cross, Diane McGuire, AZ BARNEY, Golden Retriever, Carol M. Rosen, CN LEGEND, Golden Retriever, Jeanne Ladd, CN ROSIE, Basset Hound, Beth Fuller, AL BAYLOR, Chow Chow Mix, Sharon Leebl, AZ LUCY, Brittany, Emily Ragsdale, NC RUBY, Golden Retriever, Caitlin Smith, OR BELLA, Boxer, Brenda Reed, OR LUG NUT, Pitbull, Laura Goodhue, AZ RUDY, Golden Retriever, James R. Peters, OR BELLA, Labrador Retriever, Karen A. Gibson, NC LUNA, Pitbull, Heather Jenkins Brazzell, VA RUNZA, Greyhound, Mino Fuller, CO BELLA, Australian Shepherd, Vivian B. Aiello, FL MAX, Chinese Crested, Catherine Varidel, GA SADIE, Basset Hound, Debbi Y. Martin, TN BLUE, Great Dane, Leah L. LaGrone, AL MAX, Border Collie, Susan Orr, OR SAGE, Golden Retriever, Bruce Aronson, MT BOONE, Border Collie, Susan Orr, OR MICKEY, Havanese, Nancy Stone, NY SAMSON, Standard Poodle, Diana Pate, TX CAESAR, Labradoodle, Susan Pedrosa, NY MISSY, Labrador Retriever Mix, Chris Monahan, CA SASHA, Maltese, Joni Vernars, CA CEASAR, Golden Retriever, Marianne Hamilton, IA MISSY, Golden Retriever, Terri Rafter, IL SHEENA, German Shepherd, Robin Ratner, AZ CHACO, Australian Shepherd, Mandy Bell, CO MISSY, Golden Retriever, Barbara M. Lindberg, TX SHEENA, Yellow Lab, Teddi A. Berger, NY CHAMBORD, Golden Retriever, Colin Ladd, CN MISTY, Standard Poodle, Marianne Mitchell, AZ SHERMAN, Sheltie, Linda M. Stutz, OH CHIP, Chocolate Lab, Barbara Boyd, AZ MOKI, Border Collie Mix, Chuck Simon, CA SKIPPY, Golden Retriever, Anne Adley, WA DAPHNE, Bichon Frise, Ann Jenkins, TX MOLLY, Great Pyrenees, Linda J. Anderson, WA SPICE, Golden Retriever, Jeanne Ladd, CN DUSTY, Golden Retriever, Diane Smith-Faughn, TX MOOSE, Bernese Mountain Dog, Katrina Zabinska, WA TOMMY, Golden Retriever, Janet Bayless, CO FAWN, Greyhound, R. Philip Johnson, FL MUFFIN, Yellow Lab, Linda L. Wandrick, VA TYLER, German Shepherd, Kristi Hanna, TX FRED, Doberman Mix, Patricia F. Pratt, NE MURPHY, Golden Retriever, Dave Hill, AZ WALLY, Shepherd Mix, Shirley Atwood, CN GLENN, Border Collie, Susan Orr, OR NATALIE, Shetland Sheepdog, Wendy Waddick, IL WHISPER, English Setter, Naomi B. Vizena, MI GUMBO, Greyhound, Joan S. Speckin, CA NEMO, Newfoundland, Susan D. Marino, MA WILLOW, Mastiff Mix, Kathie A. Young, CO GYPSY ROSE, Shih Tzu, Kathy L. Cross, AL NORM II, Labrador/Golden Retriever Mix, Sue Ellen WINNIE, Labrador Retriever, Catherine Ward, NE Choate, IL WRIGLEY, Golden Retriever Mix, Patricia F. Pratt, NE ORVILLE, Golden Retriever, Michael Galuskin, NY ZINDEL, Labrador/Golden Retreiver Mix, Nicholas C. OWEN, Newfoundland, Alison J. Berlin, MA Contes, CA PACO, Black Labrador Retriever, Jane Tomlinson, CA

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 Divinity lived in a cage for her first a life of being spoiled by her dad. After her retirement Divinity, through her blog, nine years, working as a puppy-mill became a champion for senior pet adoption, campaigned for discounts for senior breeder; having countless litters of pets and became an advocate for handicapped pets. Sadly, five months after puppies. Divinity was 9-1/2 years old her 14th birthday, Divinity’s veterinarian diagnosed her with terminal cancer. She when Richard Lema adopted her, and fought bravely, but lost her final battle on September 10, 2014.

18 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.

April 1, 2014 - August 31, 2014 LUCKY, Labrador Retriever, Kathryn Ozimek, WA ROSIE, Scottish Terrier, Ruth H. Hodos, CA PASSED AWAY MADELINE REY, Pitbull Mix, Barbara Rey, IL ROSIE, Golden Retriever, Sara Rostand, CA MAURY, Domestic Short-Hair Cat, Mandy Nicholson, ROXIE, English Bulldog, Scott J. Franklin, NY AMIGO, Labrador Retriever, Suzanne Staid, LA NV ROXIE, Golden Retriever, Cynthia Bennetts, CA AUGGIE, German Shepherd, Laurie L. Angel, GA MIKE, Australian Shepherd, Melannie Layne, AL RUBY, West Highland White Terrier, Patricia H. Quillen, VA AUSSIE, Australian Shepherd, Kathy Kroening, AZ MOLLY, Cairn Terrier, Darlene Gosnell, IN RUDY, Golden Retriever, Jo M. Lepse, KS BANDIT, Golden Retriever, Susan Cucuz, OH OLIVER, Cairn Terrier, Naomi B. Vizena, MI RUSTY, Sheltie, Barbara Schoof, AZ BENTLEY, English Bulldog, Pat Miya, WA PEYTON, Bernese Mountain Dog, Paul Sawyer, OH SADIE, Mastiff, Victoria Soares, CA BONNIE, Shetland Sheepdog, Becky Z. Jankowski, IL PILOT, Border Collie Mix, Katherine Gigandet, CA SADIE, Labrador Retriever, Ann Ganger, IL BUDDY, Miniature Horse, Diane McGuire, AZ RILEY, Labradoodle, Jane Taylor, FL SAMMY, Australian Shepherd, Sue E. Reid, WI BUSTER, Rottweiler, Dave Smith, FL SANDY, Wheaten Terrier, Marla Hacker, OR SANDY, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Patricia Williams, WA CASSIE, Bichon Frise, Keith & Claudette Adkins, CA SAVVY, Briard, Holly L. Dundore, MN SARAH, Labrador Retriever Mix, Wendy Panikker, CT CINDY LOU, Standard Poodle, Tara G. McLaughlin, VA SCOOTER, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Joyce Rivas, SASHA, Samoyed, David Kettering, MN CLARK, Bullmastiff, Rhea B. Bateman, OH PA SAVANNAH, Domestic Rat, Vicki L. Altman, KS DAISY, Golden Retriever, Amy Stallings, NY SCOOTER, Papillon, Diane McGuire, AZ SCHNOZ, Fox Terrier, Keirsten Rain, NY DIVINITY, Cairn Terrier, Richard Lema, MN SCOTCH, Border Collie Mix, Diane McGuire, AZ SNOOPY, Miniature Schnauzer, Charles Brown, SC DYLAN, Golden Retriever, Lori Hall, AZ SHADOW, Labrador, Laurie L. Angel, GA SOPHIE, Akita, Alena Picha, LA EDDIE, Yorkshire Terrier, Christine Stephansen, MN SIMON, Domestic Short Hair Feline, Diana Richett, SOPHIE, Shepherd Mix, Whitney Mason, WA FIONA, Brussels Griffon, Julie D. Krogh, Kansas Lakewood, CO SPREE, Great Dane, Claire Burke, MT FITZ, Bernese Mountain Dog, Brad & Dawn Puck, OH SONJA, Standard Poodle, Marian Twitchell, ID SUNDANCE, Golden Retriever, Diana Salla, OH FRANK, Golden Retriever Mix, Deborah Zigler, IN SUNSHINE, Boston Terrier, Shellie K. Pinner, NJ TAREK, Great Pyrenees, Sarah Wylly, TX FREEDOM, Australian Kelpie, Sharon M. Alexander, TX TITUS, Chocolate Labrador Retriever, CindyKay W. TEDDY BEAR, Yorkshire Terrier, Sheila Marie Anderson, FL ISABELLA, Australian Shepherd, Mary Gaines, ID Graham, FL TESS, Shetland Sheepdog, Robert Daliege, AZ JACK RABBIT, Doberman, Andrea B. Zack, CA TYD, Schipperke, Shirley Sullivan, TX TIKVA, Keeshond, Cindy L. Ehlers, OR JAJCA, Standard Poodle, Linda Lester, OH QUINN, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, LuAnn S. TOBY, Golden Retriever, Deb Jansky, WI JAKE, Cocker Spaniel Mix, Patti L. Struchynski, ND Rogers, OH TWEED, Border Terrier, Gayle H. Tilles, CA KENDALL, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Gretchen RAINBOW, Greyhound, Sharon L. Fricke, KS VAREKAI, Yellow Labrador Retriever, Caitlin Smith, OR DeMoss, OR RALPHIE, Pitbull mix, Marc Garland, OH WIFI, Australian Cattle Dog, Noreen R. Yoshida-Peer, CA LIL, Yellow Labrador Retriever Mix, Jeanette RIZZO, Golden Retriever, Janet R. Morganm OH ZEKEY, Cockatoo, Susan Crane, PA Templeton, VA ROCKY, German Shepherd, Stuart Davidson, ME ZOE, Golden Retriever, Ellen G. Emert, CT ROCKY, Labrador Retriever, Everett and Linda Lyon, VT ZUZU, Siberian Husky, Elizabeth Friend-Ennis, NY

19 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 Cohen Lillian Thomas Jones Jacqueline Joseph Davelie & Russell Morgan Sternberger Allen * Sheila Cohen Eure * George Keely * Maria Myckaniuk Stuard Estate * Dr. Robert Anderson * Fred Cole II * Janet Fisher Marion Kline * Tom Nelson Walter Stugis Anonymous Eugenia Colman * Dr. Robert & Catherine Cristine Kossow Billyanna Niland * Ingrid Sunzenauer Dr. Donna Baer Melody Cook Franklin Marguerite Lachs * Katharine Quinn Nolan * Sarah Sweatt Grace & Larry Ballentine Deborah Morgan Couples Ann Fuller * Susan Lilley Jeannie & Bruce Dr. Gregg & Laura Bernard Baron * * Harold Galbraith Carolynn Loacker Nordstrom Takashima Valerie & Richard Beck Sophie & Derek Nora Gallaher Rebecca Lovejoy Lawrence Norvell Anne Taubman Sally Becker * Craighead Gilbert Glass Barbara & Wendell Kyoko O’Neill Edith Lee Taylor * Barbara & David Bell Dr. Merry Crimi Carol Gonnella Loveless Martha Jane Pearcy Dr. Irving Taylor Marie Bickel * Dr. Roy & Lydia Cruzen Charles Granoski Jr. Esther Lyndon John Remer Jr. Ella Mae & Doc Thomas Nancy & William Biery Janna De Lue Jane Marie Griffin * Betty and Kendall Mark Rosenblum Dr. Lorna Vanderzanden Frances Bleick * Karl Denniss * Katharine & Goody Manning Debbie & Robert Ross Verrill Family Trust * Margaret Bott * Stephanie Denniss * Harding Dr. Bill & Janice Michelle & Ed Sayres Eleanor Vigil Helen Boyd Barbara Dimock * Barbara Harris McCulloch Dr. Olivia Scarse Jean Vollum * Florence Burkholder The Dogfather (James Dr. James Harris Dr. Michael McCulloch * Theodore Schneider * Dr. William Warley Dr. Leo Bustad * Schwartz) Todd Hendricks Marilyn McDaniel * Jacquetta Schulz * Linda & Craig Wescoatt Marite Butners Virginia Louis Doris * Mary Hill Leatrice Meyers * Mal Schwartz Julianne Whitcomb Helen Caradonna * Lt. Cmdr. Constance Dorn Linda Hines Karen Miller Alfred Siegel Woodside Estate * Dr. Betty Carmack Dr. D’Ann Downey Cheryl Hovanick Dr. Queenie Mills * Michael Siwula Dorothy Wynn * Dr. Craig & Ronda Carter Trudy Doyle * Robin Huckeba Wayne Minter * Jean & Bob Sneed Dr. Gary & Mary Lynn Jon & Lynnette Eastlake Gladine Hudoff * Louis Carl Mirabile * Carol & Mark Spisak * Bequest received. Champion Karen Edwards Jennifer Jarpe Marion Mitton Sandra Squires Dr. Aphrodite Clamar Dr. Joan Engel Joan & Bill Jensen Marilyn & David Mize Dr. Wayne & Sharon

Because of my 30-plus years of experience in the animal and children’s welfare fields as a board member for local, Chuck 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 Granoski 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 Chuck Granoski and Buddy program.”

“I have always had a commitment to social responsibility Chuck Granoski was born, raised and resides in Tacoma with his life and have chosen to do so in the human-animal bond partner Candace Cragg. They have three grown children. He has been with the Law Offices of Betzendofer & Granoski since 1974 and has been field to assist those who do the important day-to-day active in nonprofits all his life including the boards of the American work in this field. The positive health benefits people and Humane Association in Denver, the Humane Society for Tacoma and their pets receive from the human-animal interaction is Pierce County in Washington State and as both board member and invaluable to a society and there remains a significant interim CEO for Pet Partners in 2014. unmet need for additional such services in the world. These are just two of the reasons I decided to become If you are interested in learning how you can provide for involved with the work of Pet Partners. Pet Partners’ future by leaving a gift through the Caring Community, contact Julie Delano, National Director of Development, 425.679.5502 or [email protected]

20 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 exploding; the importance of maintaining Giving Society. It honors Pet Partners a quality approach with rigor that supports heritage and founding in 1977 as a leader the human-animal bond is perhaps more in demonstrating and promoting positive important than ever. To honor our visionary human-animal interactions while paving roots and to meet the challenges of today, a healthy road to the future. Forty years we have created the Delta Giving Society to later, the science behind the benefits of recognize those supporters who understand Animal-Assisted Interactions has become our work and consistently demonstrate indisputable. From students and seniors generous support. to veterans and the disabled, as well as patients in recovery and those approaching For information contact Julie Delano, end of life, the impact of these interactions National Director of Development, is felt one million times a year. In 2014, 425.679.5502 or [email protected] interest in Animal-Assisted Interactions is

21 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 Colby Martell Ilene Robbins Lisa Dolin Jean Martell interaction with animals Sue Grundfest all volunteer rescue groups Dr. Donald Weiss Grace Melendez Marin Sanchez Carolyn Baird Stephanie Quinby Dr. Lynda Melendez Joleen Pillar

George Berger Dana Wilson Mollie & Dino Minahan Domenica Sbrocco- Nancy Stone Paula Simon Sue Minahan Castellano Irene Herz Linda Biel In Honor of Maddie Moosbrugger reduces Andrea Hanlon Joseph Moosbrugger Eloise Sundberg Pets Bonni Sundberg Philip Favero Jackson Moosbrugger Mariangela Monteiro Tela Batty Joseph Moosbrugger Thomas Turner, Jr. Elizabeth Batty blood Frances Turner Yodels Forster Donna & Derek Carrow Louie Perrault Jill Forster Dorothy Myers Victoria Benzing Harriet Varnadore Kathryn Rheinhart Richard Varnadore Justin Gardner Silentbob & Shorty Kirsten Luethy Jefferson & Phillip Quinn pressure Isabelle Wagner Twitter Crouse Susan & Patrick Quinn Dawn Crouse Allen & Jasmine Green Dawn Crouse Gail Stevens Barnabas Rittermal Allan White Sr. Buddy Disheva Elizabeth Rittermal Annette King Bill Griffin Zorina Disheva Janice White Deborah Marchione Doggie Itty Bits Ryder Gary DiGiacomo Maeby Ferbet Mary Ann Ryder Maureen Duffy Phyllis Marie Inzunza Alison Wigton Diane Jamieson Kory Ferbet Gail O’Neill David Unger Meeghan Sinclair Emily Singh Molly Stone Zandra Price John Wellington Norbert Freyermuth Carol Stone Marie Rodgers Carlton Jeffries JF Service Dog Training Cynthia Hersh Steve & Laura Shumate Susan Wlezien Jill Forster Billie Turvey Robert Chalmers Frances Wlezien Toby Glaves Christine Turvey Carole Cook Sally Nosanchuk Michele Kennedy Julie Glaves Susan & Steve Belen In Memory of Terri DeLoach Cookie Walper Dwayne Barry “Rusty” Onix & Jordon Maritia Walper Cox Andrea O’Connor Pets Jordan Marsar Goodman Angel Paws, Inc. Lucille Beaulieu Emily Trovato Julie Goodman Shylo Wiggs Shalom Allison Laura Wiggs Norma Jean Cushman Catherine Peters Mary Ware Patty Morgan Uumaa & Tanya Gracey Pamela Hurley Joan Sare Katharine & Goody Harding Dorothy Gracey In Memory of Polar Anderson Janice Damiano Steven Pfeiffer Lois Anderson Chai Gunderson Madeline & Mowgli Donna Bailey Rhoda Axlerod Sandy Ford Andrea Gunderson Olivia Anderson Polen Jessica VanDerPoel Nick Miller Tricia Dunne-Silvetti Frances Jean Ennis Kathryn Ozimek Stephanie & Mark Missy Hall Calmenson-Golden Joe Bilek Gretchen Snyder Mark & Penny Pfeiffer Mary Hall Steven & Spencer Carolyn Ellingwood Mildred Serwold Spivak Ida Gilmore Bob & Brenda Swanson Nell & Tess Armstrong Arizona Jaeger Lynette Armstrong Jessica Yellen Judy Brown Tina King Betty Fortney Jacqulyn Wellenreiter Dan Provost Al & Mary Lou Bob Hall Lisa Callahan Cooper Bell Sammy Johnson Dr. Stanley & Darlene Vanderwiel Marie Brown Robert Davidson Linda Johnson Diesch Jeremy & Melissa Fryer Barbara Boulden Dr. Robert Rauch Rosemarie Curry Marty Harris Dr. Perry Opin Robert McDonald

22 Sheena Berger Boss & D.J. Edwards Monty Gerber Hirtzel family felines Bailey Lapinski Jack Macarol Teddi Berger Steven Benninga Dr. Nicole Gerber Dr. Cynthia Hirtzel Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin

Delta Blocker Scruffy Engel Dot Gilbert Lady Jablonski Lucy Lay Falco Manion Dr. Scott Gallatin Richard & Donna Engel Negola’s Ark Veterinary Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Hospital Hospital Rupert Burnham Oakley Eriksen-Meier Tux Jackson Crackers Lee Holdener Teton County PAL Shadow Gillespie Negola’s Ark Veterinary Negola’s Ark Veterinary Skylar Marciniak Rachel Burnham Mary & Donald Knowles Hospital Hospital Dr. Scott Gallatin Holdener Boo Boo Evans Negola’s Ark Veterinary Buddy Gleaves Mina Jager Nicky Lemmenes Tovey Mariano-Wright Skylar Byrne Hospital Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Mary Ann Byrne Hospital Maddy Fahey Lady Gordon Moe Jemilo Maizey Lindsay Toto Chimera Dr. Scott Gallatin Melvin Gordon Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Sugar Farley Sami Graf Odie & Shorty Jenkins Bogey Clancy Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Ann Jenkins interaction with animals Dr. Scott Gallatin Chaos Ferrer Kobe Granard Murphy Joyce Fergie Cooper Jillian O’Donnell Ryan Granard Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Galen Cooper Precious Fleissner Sebastian Green Twigs Kahn-Chiossone Joy Corey Joyce Fleissner Green Bean Books, LLC Stephanie Calmenson- lowers Carla Corey Golden Abby Fowler Benjamin Griffin Hannah Crockarell Negola’s Ark Veterinary Kathy Teufel Bailey Kamper Vicki Crockarell Hospital Dr. Scott Gallatin Princess Pickachu anxiety Rueben Cruit Skye Gain Hamelink Minnie Marble Neil Ross Denise & Jim Lilley Deborah Hamelink Karunaratne Negola’s Ark Veterinary Pepper Degidio Frankie Galgano Tuffy & Cody Hanck Hospital Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Nancy Hanck and stress Harley Kopczyk Pebbullz Delk Orville Galuskin Quincey Harding Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Greer Griffith Katharine & Goody Hospital Harding Laddie Kowalski levels Butkus Galvin Tender Paws Sunshine Devitt Dr. Scott Gallatin Sammy Harkins Melissa Topper Negola’s Ark Veterinary Apollo Krch Rosie Gareau Hospital Dr. Scott Gallatin A.K. DeVivo Karen Kaufman Lisa Callahan Megan Marier Dr. Scott Gallatin Pookie Hays Meenu Kumar Negola’s Ark Veterinary AJ Garvin Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Maggie Lippert Hospital Shadow Dolce Negola’s Ark Veterinary Hospital Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Hospital Bear Henderson Franny Martin Dr. Paul McCullough Athena Kyle-Bowlsbey Buster Looby Katharine & Goody Autumn Duitmann Hershey Gelfo Amy Castner Dr. Scott Gallatin Harding Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Waggie Hershman Karen Kaufman Patches Lam Otis Lowy Sadie Martin Jenni Velvet Star Dunn Libby Gerasch Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Lois Abrams Tender Paws Linda Dunn Dr. Scott Gallatin Murphy Hill Dave & Theresa Hill Dakota Lange Sampson Lullo Heidi McAuliffe Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin

23 McD McDonald Beavis Nachel Boone, Glenn & Max Kasey Robinson Bonnie Stakenas Abby Welch Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Orr Malena Robinson Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Susan & William Orr Kaylie McDonnell Chloe Nigohosian Rosie Rostand Cali Staveley Dusty Whitlow Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Mason Parthemore Nancy Lippman Elaine Staveley Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Mac McFarland Penny O’Hare Diana Ruggiero Rupert Stribling Boots Wilkes Donna McFarland Dr. Scott Gallatin Furby Pate Christy Bartley Nancy Lippman Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Maya May Russell Mesa Steyszak Jake Wilmoth Julie Russell Dr. Scott Gallatin James Wilmoth

interaction with animals Rufus Ryerson Zoey Swartz Sanity Woods Marten Ryerson Linda Horbal Negola’s Ark Veterinary Hospital Magy Sager Hunter Takashima Negola’s Ark Veterinary Donald Falk & Harold Willow Young Hospital Rains Laura Krowel

Sam Sandine Suzy Terwilliger Agnes Arkydog Zollner Dr. Scott Gallatin Anne Terwilliger Carlsbad Pet Therapy increases Association, Inc. LuLu Schmehl Snickers Timm Katharine & Goody Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Harding Kay & Don Zollner Taz Schmid Bailey Tipner a sense of Negola’s Ark Veterinary Dr. Scott Gallatin Gunther Zucconi Hospital Noelle Welz Tyson Tomlinson Midnight Schmidt Negola’s Ark Veterinary community Dr. Scott Gallatin Hospital Daisy Schoenecker Simba Trolan Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Hospital Xander Schupek Dr. Scott Gallatin Sosa Trovato Domino McNaughten Misty O’Hern Mowgli Polen Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Dr. Scott Gallatin Libby & David Estrin Mo Schwartz Hospital Ethan & Karen Lazar Jase Schwartz Sunset Umgelder Shadow & Casper Fran Rivera Dr. Scott Gallatin Angel Medel Ojermark Isabel Schornstein Molly Shaheen Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Tina Solomon Carol Shaheen Caesar Vaden Negola’s Ark Veterinary Lucille Metke Frosty Oliver Belle Putz Gracie Sherman Hospital Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Paul McCullough Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Hospital Molly VanValkenburg Tootsie Meyers Eddy Olivo Meegs Quinn Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Dr. Scott Gallatin Dusty Smith-Faughn Hospital Diane Smith-Faughn Bubba Lily Vish Caterina Miller Emilie Richardson Dr. Scott Gallatin Jerilyn Felton Olsen family dogs James Richardson Drake Soderlund Thomas Olsen Dr. Scott Gallatin Pickles Vodar Parker Monahan Harlow Richardson Dr. Scott Gallatin Dr. Scott Gallatin Nugget Olson Lisa Zeiner Roscoe Soliday Negola’s Ark Veterinary Teton County PAL Rocket Voras Mattie Moshlak Hospital Jerry Robbins Dr. Scott Gallatin Negola’s Ark Veterinary Lynda Kelly Redmann Stake Hospital Dr. Scott Gallatin Rusty Vosburg Dr. Scott Gallatin

24 PET PARTNERS WELCOMES NEW BOARD LEADERSHIP

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 She is joined by four new Ex-officio. board members:

Chad Baigini, Managing Director Ryan Granard, Vice President of at Harvard International Cloud Operations at Adobe

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 leader- ship 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

Michael Sapp, Vice President Diana Kiriakides, Vice President of Merchandising Solutions at of Talent Acquisition at Experian PetSmart.

25 Xander In Klamath Falls, Oregon: He Seems To Hear What People Are Feeling

Marcie and Rodney Beedy were not looking for another dog on couple’s seven other dogs. the day Xander found them. The Oregon couple already had six “Right after we brought Xander home, we noticed the other Pugs and a Lab at home when Rodney came across a new resi- dogs would take turns outside with him, helping him through the dent at the Klamath Animal Shelter early last year. Up for adoption doggie door until he could handle it on his own,” Marcie said. was a young fur ball of a Pug, the soft tan color of tea with milk, It didn’t take long for the couple to realize Xander had a special with a dark nose and plenty of wrinkles. calling. Unlike some more spirited Pugs, Xander is even-tempered But there was something different about Xander. Pugs typically and gentle. The couple knew he was a perfect candidate to be a have large, sensitive, expressive eyes that seem to telegraph emo- therapy dog. tion. Xander was blind, having suffered a head injury when he was They enrolled him at Double-C Dog Training (where Rodney is younger that caused him to lose both eyes. a certified trainer) and he passed with flying colors. Marcie says Rodney didn’t see the dog’s limitations. What he saw instead Xander was a natural at training, and performed better than most of was a loving puppy with a strong and gentle heart; a “wonder dog” the sighted dogs. Rodney started taking Xander to work with him, destined for greatness. where he settled in as the school’s official greeter. Rodney called his wife. Diploma in hand (or paw), Xander then aced the Pet Partners “There’s something here you therapy dog test, and Marcie and Xander became a registered ther- need to see,” he told her. apy animal team. Xander was about to turn tragedy into triumph. Marcie wasn’t convinced she Xander began making regular visits to hospitals, nursing homes could handle the challenge of and schools, immediately bonding with everyone he met. owning a blind dog. Then her Marcie tells the story of a woman in hospice care who had fallen heart took over. in love with Xander during a visit and asked for him in her final days. “It was love at first sight,” Every day until she passed away, Xander would sit quietly with Marcie said. “Then I held him in the woman, gently resting his head in her hands for as long as she my arms, and I was done. I just needed him to be there. melted.” Marcie says some of Xander’s visits bring her to tears, as she The young puppy – thought watches people melt at his nuzzling touch. to be about 10 months old “This is his calling. People love him,” she says. when he was abandoned at the Even though he can’t see and also has lost part of his sense shelter – eased into his new of smell, Xander seems to have a sixth sense for those in need home with a little help from the of comfort. Whether a timid child or an elderly person in pain, he

26 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 always knows exactly what someone needs, and is more than will- next to a child who is struggling to focus at ing to give. When Xander hears someone crying, absolutely nothing school – quietly offering a reason to engage in class, and patiently will stand in his way as he scurries to help. listening as the child reads aloud to him. Marcie says, “He seems to hear what people are feeling.” And his uncanny ability to connect with children may pay off in The Pet Partners team also is committed to the Klamath County another way, with vulnerable kids who struggle to fit in with their Chapter of Hands & Words Are Not For Hurting Project, which peers. The gentle, lovable Xander – who sees with his heart if not works to reduce bullying and school violence. And Xander is even a his eyes – also carries an unspoken message: What does it mean card-carrying member of the Sky Lakes Medical Center Guild, with to be different? In Xander’s case, “different” means destined for his own hospital ID and an open invitation to visit. greatness. Marcie says Xander is the best dog she’s ever had, and she isn’t “There will never be another one like him,” Marcie says. “He is alone in her admiration. Her Pet Partners Pug has become a local just an amazing dog.” and even international celebrity, with regular news coverage and more than 8,500 followers on his Facebook page. Contributed by Kris Betker 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

27 NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE 875 - 124th Ave NE, Ste. 101 PAID Bellevue, WA 98005-2531 PERMIT NO.71 Bellevue, WA

Founded in 1977, Pet Partners is the leader in demonstrating and promoting positive human- animal 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.

28