Love for Lend A Paw's Dogs

Through our work, we touch the lives of many individuals who will be forever grateful for our smiles, our listening ears, and our dog's wet nose kisses and furry hugs. For whatever reason we each began this work, we all come to realize that it brings us so much more than we could have ever imagined. For me, Animal-Assisted Activities was initially a way to spend quality time with my dog. Over the years I have realized that it has helped me, a formerly painfully shy individual, to become more confident in communicating with people. In wanting to share my happy loving dog with others who were less fortunate, I entered into a partnership with my dog that has changed my own life. I could not do this work without Gabi, my partner, who brings confidence to me, and brings joy to many others.

In starting a new year with Lend A Paw, I want to take a moment to honor some Lend A Paw dogs, who have changed their partner's lives, and have touched many more. We thank you for your wet nose kisses, and your unconditional love. And we send love and comfort to the partners you left behind. May they find peace in knowing that they will not be the only people who miss you.

Archie, a newly certified Lend A Paw volunteer, passed away tragically just one week ago. Archie was not with our program long, but he brought more smiles to the people he met than most people can do in one lifetime. Wonderfully enthusiastic about life, Archie was born to be a therapy dog, and his owners could not wait to get him certified so they could start visiting. We thank you Archie for bringing love and comfort to those in need. We wish your family love and comfort during this difficult time.

Lily Rose, one of our first Lend A Paw volunteers, passed away in March, 2011. She was certified with the program for two years, and was the most special dog her mom, Donna, ever had. Lily used to visit the Jewish Home for the Aging, and delighted all the residents with her big smile and her calm demeanor. Lily's favorite visits were the ones in which she rode in her stroller and dressed in a fancy outfit. She loved to sit on the residents laps and listen to all they had to say while getting a nice ear rub. Thank you, Lily. We miss you.

Hopi, a happy Viszla with lots of love to give, passed away in December, 2011 after a long battle with cancer. Hopi's parents were long time supporters of New Leash On Life, and in 2010, they wanted to give back even more and joined the Lend A Paw program. Hopi loved everyone he met, and brought smiles to their faces that were almost as big as his own. Thank you, Hopi. We miss you.











Written by Sharon Vincuilla, Lend A Paw Director