THERAPY DOGS ON CALL

I wanted to take some time to tell everyone about one of our members, Christina Flack, and the program that she is involved in.  Therapy DOGS ON CALL is an Easter Seals Alabama non-profit organization that supports, trains, organizes, and certifies dogs and their handlers to perform multiple services. Christina recently joined this program with her bullmastiff, Candy.

Christina wrote:

"We initially went to assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and schools. However, the program has expanded into our local hospitals and occupational therapy work. Most people welcome it. It is amazing seeing someone's face light up when they see the dogs. Actually there is a case now where a little kid was in a coma and he woke up when Frances (founder of the program) started stroking his hand on the dog's head. The dog has came back everyday to spend time with him and he has improved greatly. The hospitals are excited to have the program. There is alot of training involved with the program. The dog must be able to do basic obedience, pass the CGC, and pass the basic DOC testing to be able to visit nursing homes and assisted living facilities. To be able to visit hospitals, they must also pass the public access training...basically have to be bomb proof."

This is CH Melkev's Sweet Delicious Candy.  She is 6 years old.  Candy had her first visit to Jackson Hospital several weeks ago.  She did wonderful! Candy went with her friend Yaeger so the patients got to see two bullmastiffs instead of just one.  Candy recently had orientation at Baptist East Hospital and will begin to visit patients there soon as well!  Candy is now certified through Alabama's Easter Seals to do public access.

Christina doesnt usually brag on her girl but she is very poud of her.  As I am sure we all would be as well.  Just look at this girl! 

Have a great week!

Tracy