Dogs bring comfort, joy to cancer patients
Bernie, a 5-pound toy poodle wearing a pink dress, walked, danced and twirled on her hind legs. She was not at all intimidated by the nearby presence of Jak, a dignified 180-pound Leonberger. They were the smallest and the largest dogs honored at Pet Therapy Appreciation Day at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside.
Nine therapy dogs and their human partners came to a special ceremony and party on May 10 that was part of Volunteer Appreciation Week.
The dog party was held in the atrium in the main lobby, which looks more like a high-end hotel than a medical treatment center. Lots of sunlight and lush plantings give the room a warm and welcoming vibe, which was enhanced by the presence of dogs.
Patients, staff and visitors were enchanted, and the dogs were happy to be petted and appreciated. As an added bonus, some dogs did tricks.
Twenty-seven therapy dogs and their human partners regularly visit Hillman all year, bringing comfort and joy to people who are literally fighting for their lives. Usually the dogs are in the waiting rooms. On Appreciation Day, it’s a special treat to see a group of superbly trained dogs, all in one place, working together for more than two hours.
All of the dogs have passed tough certification tests given by a variety of organizations, including Therapy Dogs International and Animal Friends Therapets. Many also visit other facilities, including hospice, veterans hospitals and nursing homes.
Bernie, 10, became a therapy dog last August, said Mary Lee Stenson of Shadyside. The toy poodle is popular with people who like a lap dog. They also look forward to seeing which of her many outfits she will wear.
Mosie, 10, a black and white Portuguese water dog, has been coming to Hillman for nine years, said Richard Oberndorf of Franklin Park. The retired airline pilot also brings Hava, 4, a brown water dog.
Mosie and Hava know a lot of tricks, and the younger dog, on command from Mr. Oberndorf, will jump back and forth over Mosie’s back.
Another accomplished trick dog is Annie, 5, a golden retriever. Her repertoire includes dancing, praying and carrying two flags in her mouth while riding on a skateboard.
“Annie lifts everybody’s spirits
— patients, families, doctors, nurses and staff,” said Benjamin Lear of Oakmont. “A priest said she walks in God’s light.”
Ten years ago, Mr. Lear was diagnosed with prostate and liver cancer.
“I promised God that if I got through it I would give back, and that’s what I do with Annie,” said Mr. Lear, who works as senior vice president/investments at Wells Fargo Financial Advisors. “Every one of these dogs here is special. I am privileged and honored to do this” for four years.
Last year, more than 225 volunteers donated over 22,000 hours to the Hillman Cancer Center. The dogs are an important part of that, said Cyndy Patton, manager of media relations.
Olive, 7, a black Newfoundland, and Amy Bischoff of Wilkinsburg, were given a Silver Paw Award for five years of service.
In a bittersweet moment, DiDi, a Shetland sheepdog, was singled out for recognition because she is retiring.
“She’s 12, she’s slowing down. She’s been doing this for nine years and it’s time,” said Nancy Olson of Murrysville, who said the therapy visits have been rewarding. “When we see a smile on a patient’s face, we know we have done good.”
Other dogs at the appreciation day were: Spenser, 6, a Yorkshire terrier/shih tzu mix with Judy Bergman of Forest Hills; Jak, 3, the Leonberger with Don Tice of Hopewell, Beaver County; and Rooney, 3, a Bernese mountain dog with Terra Brozowski of Shadyside.
Rooney’s left rear leg had to be amputated after an accident, which happened shortly after she passed her therapy dog test. Patients say they are “inspired” to meet the cheerful, friendly dog, Ms. Brozowski said.