The Pet Therapy Program at Circle of Caring at Hospice of the Good Shepherd works by providing clients with proximity to animals, creating a comforting, nurturing presence. Pet therapy has commonly been known to increase socialization, enhance mental stimulation, encourage physical contact, decrease heart rate and blood pressure, and in some instances, create a sense of spiritual fulfillment. All of the Circle of Caring at Hospice of the Good Shepherd therapy pets are certified by Therapy Dogs International and are accompanied by their owner, or a trained Hospice staff member or volunteer.
Cashel
Cashel is a 140 pound female, Newfoundland dog who was born on May 25, 2010. She is friendly, gentle, easy-going and smart. She is a very curious dog with a mind of her own.
Cashel is a terrific swimmer and on hot summer days she loves to wade in the water. She prefers cold weather and gets excited when it snows; she will sit by a window watching the flakes drift down until she goes outside. Cashel likes to play with other dogs and loves to be chased, although she is not very fast. She also likes to play with toys, particularly a small football which bounces in unpredictable ways. She loves to meet people, especially kids, and she has made many friends on her daily walks.
Cashel earned a Canine Good Citizen certificate and is registered with Therapy Dogs International.
Fitz
Born 6.11.07, his full name is FitzWilliam Darcy of Pemberly named after Mr. Darcy from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. In addition to holding a diploma from the Yankee Golden Retriever Club Fitz holds a Canine Good Citizen certificate. He is an active member of Therapy Dog International.
In addition to working as a therapy dog Fitz spends his days at an area independent school where his duties include dispensing unconditional affection and playing with students. During his free time Fitz enjoys chasing tennis balls, long walks in the woods, swimming and eating snow.
Martha
Martha, an Australian Labradoodle born in 2008, is a social butterfly and loves meeting people. As an active member of Therapy Dogs International, Martha volunteers with several local organizations visiting people young and old.
At home, Martha spends her time napping and watching TV but her favorite activity is spending time outdoors doing anything that involves getting dirty - running in the woods, splashing through mud puddles, and searching for the perfect stick to chew.
For more information about the Pet Therapy program at Circle of Caring at Hospice of the Good Shepherd, or for information about any of the Integrative Therapies programs, please call the Hospice office at 617.969.6130 or
Circle of Caring at Hospice of the Good Shepherd