AAT Volunteer(s) of 2007

Gerry and I took Wenzi and Abram to the Carolina Canines Volunteer Appreciation annual picnic today and were totally surprised and pleased to learn that Wenzi and I are their Volunteers of the Year for our Animal Assisted Therapy work at local nursing homes and schools! I didn't realize that 60-70% of their volunteers are NOT retired or working from home and don't have the luxury of visiting two or three different facilities a week for a couple of hours each, as we do.

And pretty soon, Pearl will join us as a Pet Partner so that she too can spread a little joy among the elderly and children! What is so extra special about our relationship with Carolina Canines is that Rick Hairston, the founder, was willing to give Abram a shot at being a Service Dog after he saw what a great temperament his grandma Wenzi had. All the rest of their service dogs are either golden or black labs or labradoodles, so we are truly unique.

Most everyone we meet is amazed because they thought ridgebacks were more aggressive than my babies and are pleasantly surprised to find that isn't the case...