A love letter to Nikki

A letter to Nikki from her friend, Catherine.

Dear Nikki,
I love you my Nikki and I like to play with you in the park.

L O V E
Catherine

Kids, Dogs & Seniors

Senior Visiting with Dogs and Young People.

I have had the privilege to visit with the seniors now for many years with my Dogs. I have two therapy dogs, Nikki and Benny. I take them both visiting in separate senior homes. I belong to Therapeutic Paws of Canada. What a wonderful organization it is.

How did I get started into this wonderful work? I was visiting a dear young friend in the palliative care unit in our local hospital. My friend was dying. On this day, she was totally exhausted and sleeping. I was watching her, in turmoil with what was happening when very softly in walked Linda and Tasha, the resident visiting golden retriever. My friend could not benefit from this visit, but boy, I sure did. This dog helped me get a grip on my emotions. Such a beautiful dog she is. Tasha and Linda the owner became my mentors. I knew this is what I wanted to do. Tasha’s owner, Linda, wrote a “Tribute to Tasha”. I have it published on my site, with her permission.

One of our church members has moved to the same home I take Nikki visiting. Because of this, I have had an unexpected pleasure; one of our young people, Cassandra, has volunteered to come with me. She observes Nikki visiting, and she talks with the seniors, holds their hands. She makes them smile, big-time!
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