Photo by Julie Freeman

Left to right is Charlie Derr an Aussie, Sable Freeman, Pembroke corgi and AJ Guziak a Portuguese water dog modeling their latest costumes.  This "Three Musketeers" trio is part of the Paws for Wellness at Reading Hospital and volunteer on several floors always wearing costumes. They were part of a 13-dog demo Feb. 9, 2004 at Tel Hai, a residential care facility in Lancaster County.  You can only imagine how happy the residents or patients are to see this trio coming down a hall. Thanks to their chauffeurs:  Harriett Derr, Julie Freeman and Mary Guziak.

     In 1995, the Therapy Dog group consisted of nine members going out an average of twice a month. This number has grown to 61 members, with about 20 active members. The schedule has increased to 3-4 times a week, including one night. Most of the dogs have been trained at the Berks County Dog Training Club.
     In order to be tested for the therapy dog group, the dog must be 1 year old, up-to-date with shots, free of any wounds, rashes, ticks or fleas. The dog must be able to approach strangers in a friendly manner, keep its feet on the floor and be comfortable around other dogs.
     The testing process involves evaluation of both dog and handler. The tester will be looking for positive reinforcement, encouragement, and enjoyment of the interaction between dog and patients, etc. Both the handler and the dog should be well groomed, neat and clean. The handler should be appropriately dressed and using language indicative of the surroundings.
     After a minimum of four observations in facilities, the tester will inform the handler whether or not he or she has met the necessary elements. Upon completion of the paperwork necessitated by Therapy Dogs Inc., the team becomes eligible to attend all therapy dog sessions with the group or do solo visits with permission of the facility.
     The therapy dogs have also taken on regular visitation to Reading Hospital, a program called Paws for Wellness. Paws took off  in 2004 and we currently have 16 Handlers and approximately 24 dogs involved in this program.
Marge Stiller
Coordinator
610-670-0302

Therapy group photos