On Monday September 14th, the Rotary Club of Sandy Springs hosted a virtual gathering with Howard Shore & Dave Frew.

First things first. Please forgive the technical hurtles we faced when we discovered the posted link did not work as advertised. We eventually had to initialize a new zoom meeting.

Once we did get started, Howard allowed us to meet three of his current dogs and Dave explained how he initially became involved with Happy Tails. Happy Tails volunteer teams provide physical, social, emotional, and cognitive therapy to people of all ages. Most people they visit tend to focus more on the fun they are having instead of the therapeutic benefits they receive! Dave explained that animal-assisted therapy and activity visits provide numerous cognitive, physical, social and emotional benefits. In a less active environment, such as a hospice or assisted living facility, your visit will provide stimulation, conversation, companionship, and sensory gratification to the patient, as well as comfort to the caretaker and family members. An entertaining animal, such as one that knows tricks, provides a welcome diversion to distract a resident from pain. Smiles and laughter are also great medicine. Even an animal that “only” has a sweet face and a gentle touch makes a valuable contribution in any kind of setting. Cat, rabbit, show dog or shelter dog, Happy Tails has a visit for you and your pet.

   
In photo: Dave Frew and his dog Ranger.

The Rotary Club of Sandy Springs would like to thank Dave & Howard for taking time to meet with us virtually. But wait there is more.

Dave & Howard have set a date to actually make an in person appearance with their dogs on Monday, January 25th 2021.

Want to join Happy Tails? The first step is attending a mandatory Orientation. You can learn more about becoming a member on their Volunteer page.

For more information about Happy Tail Pet Therapy click here: https://www.happytailspets.org/