WHEN DUTY CALLS

By Wednesday, June 7, 2017 18 No tags Permalink

As a Medical University of South Carolina Pet Therapy dog – when duty calls…

 

WHEN DUTY CALLS

Harley answers…

WHEN DUTY CALLS

Since 2005 MUSC has recognized the invaluable health benefits pets provide.

Pets can be just the right prescription for people in the hospital. They can lower your blood pressure, pain levels, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

They’re excellent combatants against loneliness too!

PET THERAPY VISITS –

All the dogs and handlers visit regularly throughout the week for approx. 15 minutes. Harley has a tendency to stay longer because he likes the back rubs, and I like talking to the patients and their parents.

Patients are able to request visits from the Buddy Brigade and we’re allowed to visit patients in their rooms as long as they are not in isolation. #pawsomecombination

Finding out a lil person has asked to see Harley again is an indescribable feeling. I get goosies watching the bedside reunions, while Harley gets treats…

WHEN DUTY CALLS

ADOPT A BUDDY –

A virtual adoption of one or more of the registered pet therapy dogs will benefit this volunteer program and help support many initiatives that they do for patients and their families.

You will receive a trading card (photo and fun facts) of the buddy you virtually adopt…

WHEN DUTY CALLS

…along with a certificate of adoption!

If you’d like to make a donation – select “Adopt a Buddy” (from the drop down menu) and help the folks at MUSC

Change what’s possible in Healthcare.

WHEN DUTY CALLS

Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory. Dr. Suess

This is our “wordy” attempt contribution in the BlogPaws Wordless Wednesday Blog Hop. #pleasedontjudgeus


18 Comments
  • Pamela
    June 7, 2017

    It was very nice of Harley’s “patient” to allow you to take that sweet picture. It warmed my heart.

    • Cathy Bennett
      June 12, 2017

      It’s always a blessing to watch him bring smiles.

  • Monika & Sam
    June 7, 2017

    That ‘adoption’ program is too cool! Our therapy dogs have business cards with their photos and FAQ’s on the reverse side. Patients love to collect them and so do the nurses.

    • Cathy Bennett
      June 12, 2017

      I was so surprised at how popular the cards are Monika. One day I didn’t have any with me and I found myself embarrassed when the children asked for them. Had to double back the following day. Missed a few patients who’d left the day before, and that taught me to “never leave home without it!”

  • Emma
    June 7, 2017

    Glad you found something you both enjoy!

    • Cathy Bennett
      June 12, 2017

      We are too! Paws crossed that Jaxson can pass his class and become certified also. Double Doodle Duty…

  • M. K. Clinton
    June 7, 2017

    If I’m ever in the hospital, I want Harley to FaceTime me to help me recover!

    • Cathy Bennett
      June 12, 2017

      You just call and we will grab our tablet!

  • Jan K
    June 7, 2017

    What a wonderful program, and Harley has found his calling. I know if I was in the hospital, having a dog visit would go a long way towards making me feel better.

    • Cathy Bennett
      June 12, 2017

      So many people think that same thought – and so far the program has been growing by leaps and bounds all across the country.

  • Robin
    June 7, 2017

    Awww! I love this! It is so awesome of you to be on call for the patients at the hospital. I think that animals can provide a very important part of healing for many people. There are so many examples of people’s lives being changed for the better because of the love of an animal. Your dogs are heroes!

    • Cathy Bennett
      June 12, 2017

      Thanks Robin – the hospital calls all the pet therapy dogs – “Hairy Heroes” I totally understand and agree!

  • Jean Dion
    June 8, 2017

    What a sweet service. And I’m sure it helps. I know I was so lonely for my dogs when I was in the hospital with my broken leg. A visit from someone as sweet as Harley would have brightened me up for sure.

    Jean from Welcome to the Menagerie

    • Cathy Bennett
      June 12, 2017

      And this particular patient was lonely for is dogs as well.

  • Kimberly Gauthier
    June 9, 2017

    I love that you’re participating in this; what an amazing program and Harley looks so comfortable in his role. I’ve always been told that dogs need a job and Harley has one that helps so many people. Well done! You’re my inspiration.

    • Cathy Bennett
      June 12, 2017

      Thanks my friend. Can’t wait to get Jaxson started.

  • Morrie Major
    November 16, 2017

    What an amazing program and of course us dogs are great healers and care givers!
    I always cheer my mum up when she’s not well or just generally feeling sad, and it looks like this initiative takes it to a whole extra level.
    Well done!
    Lots of licks, your new friend Morrie 🙂

    • Cathy Bennett
      November 25, 2017

      Hi Morrie – thanks so much for stopping by. And yes, dogs are great healers. They are truly a git from God.