Lily, an eight-year-old Beagle from New York, is a therapy dog who has a very big job: She visits children in schools and libraries, as well as older adults living in nursing homes and brings them joy. They enjoy everything from reading to Lily to simply sitting and talking with her about their day or whatever is on their minds.
Lily is a rescue from GRASP (Greece Residents Assisting Stray Pets) in Greece, New York. She was adopted at two-years-old, and her mom says Lily was very anxious and vocal, but with a little love and TLC, she soon turned a new leaf and became a very calm dog who soon understood the important job before her.
A typical day for Lily is visiting their local elementary school, where she’s been a therapy dog for the past four years. She’s part of a program where select kids have the opportunity to read to Lily to improve their reading skills, as well as work through any emotional needs they have.
“We’ve also gone to nursing homes with heart-warming results,” said Lily’s mom Mary Lou. “People so often have had to leave their animals behind or have happy memories of their past dogs, and their faces just light up when we walk in.”
Lily and her mom also visit high schools and colleges to serve as a “stress buster” for students during exam week, something the students greatly welcome as the sight of Lily automatically helps with any school stress students may be experiencing.
“This is truly rewarding work and the best decision we’ve ever made for one of our dogs,” said Mary Lou.
Being a therapy dog can have a demanding schedule, so Lily enjoys eating Zignature Lamb Formula. “Lily is eight years old and is as healthy as she is because of your fantastic product,” said Mary Lou. “We’ve used Zignature Lamb Formula for years, dry kibble and canned.”
Click here for more information on Therapy Dog International and to learn more about the fantastic work they’re doing around the U.S and Canada.
