PAWS for People Community Newsletter: Early February, 2021 |
|
Special Requests Make Magic That You Can See! |
|
Did you know that anyone can make a special request for PAWS therapy visits? And if we have a team in their area that is willing to visit – we make the magic match!
A great example of this magic happens every Thursday when Murphy Connor-Jeffers drops by his new friend’s house to join him for his morning walk. Dianna, Murphy’s mom, has this to say about the visits – “thought I’d just send you a few pics of Murphy and Ed together. They walk together now almost every Thursday morning. The two of them are always so happy to see each other! It’s always a wonderful visit and perks everyone’s spirits up!
Take a good look at the photos – on the surface it’s just a picture of a man walking a dog. But inside, there is solid pet therapy going on – companionship, routine, adoration, exercise, and 4 happy beings (our PAWS human, our recipient, his wife, and, of course, Murphy.)
Please note: PAWS’ human, Dianna, is right there with them, but not holding the leash, allowing Ed to feel independent and “in charge.” Feeling this to be really good for Ed’s self-confidence, Dianna followed PAWS’ protocol and contacted PAWS’ Executive Director to receive permission to suspend our leash rules. If you have a similar request, please contact Lynne to discuss it – 302-351-5622
|
|
PAWS Turns 16 on February 11th! |
|
|
|
Happy 16th Anniversary to PAWS for People!
We are so happy to celebrate 16 years of providing hope and healing to our community. It's been an incredible journey of adaptation and growth to meet the everchanging needs of those we visit.
A huge thank you to our volunteers who continue to amaze us with their dedication and creativity. You have been instrumental in helping PAWS to "Stay Connected" and continue to provide the benefits of pet therapy throughout this difficult time when so many are experiencing isolation, anxiety, and loneliness.
This week we celebrate the humble beginnings of PAWS. Founded by Lynne Robinson & Boo Radley (a visionary and her dog), PAWS has grown into the largest pet therapy organization in the Mid-Atlantic region.
|
|
Congratulations to Lynne and all of PAWS staff and volunteers who put the heart on our paw print! |
|
New PAWS University Class - Closer to the Heart! |
|
We have written a new PAWS U course entitled “Closer to the Heart” and will be piloting the class this week with 16 willing PAWS humans and their pups (thank you).
The course focuses on the value of keeping the person you’re visiting engaged with your pet as much as possible. There is a big difference between the therapeutic value of seeing a dog walk by, having a dog come over to visit, and having a dog get close for brushing or kisses and hugs. The level of engagement will greatly influence the effectiveness of the visit and the good and lasting feelings that everyone involved gets.
Stay tuned for more info about this class. If all goes well during the pilots, “Closer to the Heart” should be available to all PAWS members very soon.
|
|
PAWS New Program - Walkin' & Talkin' |
|
So many of our members have embraced the new Walkin' & Talkin' program which encourages PAWS members to get out into the community and share their pets (following all COVID-19 safety protocols, of course.) We have almost 60 folks and pets signed up for the program.
We recently received this photo and story from PAWS member, Michele Butler. "My husband and I were at Ikea in Baltimore last weekend and I asked the management there if it would be ok if I brought Finnley inside for a little pet therapy! They were really gracious and he was a hit with the shoppers (and kids especially!) there!"
|
|
|
If you are out there Walkin' & Talkin' and sharing about PAWS for People, we would love to hear your stories and see your photos. If you have not signed up for this new program, but would like to join the fun, please reach out to Lynne to learn more and get the program materials - lrobinson@PAWSforPeople.org
|
|
Sandy Graves was inspired to become a pet therapy team through her own experience. After being on the receiving end of pet therapy, she realized that her own adorable Cavapoo, Rosie, would be a great candidate for such uplifting visits.
Since joining, they’ve been participating in Community Events, as well as bringing smiles to residents at Lima Estates and Jenner’s Pond. In addition, Sandy and Rosie were regular fixtures as Courthouse Companions with the The County of Delaware Court Program for Dependency and Protection from Abuse Courts.
Thank you, Sandy, for sharing your time and commitment to PAWS. Thank you, Rosie for your tail-wagging greetings with people of all ages.
|
|
David Luttenberger joined PAWS for People with his extremely handsome large mixed breed, Trevor in November of 2018. David witnessed first-hand how powerful pet therapy can be when his own father was receiving visits. He saw the smiles that the pets brought to everyone.
This Advanced team has brought joy to all they meet. David and Trevor love visiting the folks at Pitman Senior Living in New Jersey to pay tribute to his father. They also enjoy spreading the word about PAWS for People at community events.
Thank you, David, for sharing your kindness with the community. Thank you, to Trevor, for your adorable personality and the furry love you bring to all the folks you visit.
|
|
Many thanks to our PAWS Partners |
|
|
|
Donate While You Shop
The AmazonSmile Foundation donates 0.5% of the price of eligible purchases when selected by customers. Choose PAWS for People when you log in: smile.amazon.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
