Well, the therapist is in anyway:)
Kona is loving working at the hospital as a pet therapy dog. He helps stroke and brain trauma patients work on their motor skills by having them throw toys for him to retriever or by brushing and petting him. To work on their memories, patients try to remember things they have learned about Kona. Sometimes he gives them a few hints to help out. And by talking to Kona they work on strengthening their speech skills. Of course Kona gives everyone lots of smiles to make them feel better.
As soon as we start getting ready to go to the hospital Kona gets really excited. He’s even happy waiting for the elevator in the parking structure.
When he’s finished group pet therapy, Kona spends a couple of hours roaming the hospital, visiting with patients and staff. Even though he’s only been volunteering at the hospital for a month, it is not unusual to hear “Kona!” followed up with big hugs and ear scratches. It really is a joy to see how much a dog can make someone’s day better in the hospital environment.
All that attention makes for a tired dog and Kona has a big nap when he gets home, dreaming of all his new friends at the hospital.
Oh Its warms our heart to know Kona is volunteering and helping the patients!!! Hes come so far!!! See what love can do??? Our hearts are full because of him!! Way to go Kona! Hugs,Joey and Kealani
Aww, that just warms my heart!
I know seeing him would make my day so much better.
Sam
Dr. Kona, you could heal the world with that smile. Good job buddy, we are so proud of you!
This is wonderful. I was in the hospital for a week last month when I broke my neck, and it took a couple days of asking my mom asking around but I wrangled an hour of cuddle time with one of the physical therapist’s therapy dogs. His name was Hartney, and it wasn’t quite as good as having Murphy there with me…but it definitely left a huge impression on me. The comfort of just having a dog there for a bit was invaluable. I think once I’m fully healed and can handle him better on a leash again Murphy and I will take a CGC class and see if we can get started towards making some therapy visits.
You are such a sweet soul Kona!
Kona;
What wonderful work you do, you are a true credit to us Goldens.
You certainly deserve your rest.
How khool!
Woo are just like the Golden Therapy Retriever I shared on my blog last week!
PAWESOME JOB KONA!!!
Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra
Woof! Woof! MD Konna. That’s GREAT! You defnitely making lots of patients very happy n forget about their illness. Keep It Up. Lots of Golden Woofs, Sugar