Baxter, the beloved San Diego Hospice Volunteer Pet Therapy Dog.
As a spiritual counselor at San Diego Hospice, I have the opportunity to meet some remarkable caregivers and work as part of an incredible hospice care team. We lost a very special member of our team recently, Baxter, one of our volunteer pet therapy dogs in our Pawsitive Pals program.
Pet therapy has a healing power like no other. Baxter was gifted with an abundance of special qualities that made him uniquely suited for the work of a visiting dog. He had a quiet, calming presence, a friendly interest in people, a soft gaze, and the sweetest face. He also had a wellspring of patience, was generous with his kisses, and willing to receive all the hugs and strokes you could give, whether from the comfort of your lap, or his little red wagon, or the bed of a patient.
Baxter was a “dog person” who enjoyed his work. Right up until the last weeks of his life, his work kept him going. He had a loving family, lots of friends and was the picture of canine spiritual health.
I was honored when asked to give the eulogy at Baxter’s memorial service. When I spoke with Baxter’s mom, Melissa, she said she hoped to hear Baxter’s friends tell personal stories of their relationships with Baxter. Standing before the100+ people and dogs in attendance, I proudly stated that I absolutely loved and adored Baxter. He brought joy, comfort and peace to my day. I’ve heard it said that vocation is where your greatest passion touches the world’s greatest need. Pet therapy is one of my greatest passions and I believe it fulfills a great need. I’ve always dreamed of having a visiting dog ministry, where rescued dogs become a team of canine co-chaplains along with me. Baxter helped me take a step towards my dream. He has left an indelible paw print on my heart and I will truly miss him.
I was a palliative medicine fellow at SDHPC during the 2005-2006 academic year. I have such wonderful memories of Baxter — how he helped my patients, and how he helped me. He’ll be missed!
How do I get my dog certified to be a therapy dog in hospice?
Thanks for your interest in our Pawsitive Pals Pet Therapy Program. Below are answers to your question. I’ve also included a link to an FAQ sheet regarding this program: http://www.sdhospice.org/pdf/PawsitivePalsFAQ.pdf
What are the requirements for my dog?
Your dog must have current pet therapy certification and insurance. The necessary insurance is included with certification at our approved agencies.
What if my dog is not yet certified?
Your dog will need to be certified prior to becoming a Pawsitive Pals volunteer. Currently approved certification agencies include:
Delta Society Pet Partners
425-679-5539
More certification agencies for therapy dogs:
Love on a Leash
760-740-2326
Love on a Leash
760-740-2326
info@loveonaleash.org
http://www.loveonaleash.org
Therapy Dogs Incorporated
877-843-7364
therapydogsinc@qwestoffice.net
http://www.therapydogs.com
Therapy Dogs International (TDI)
858-759-9847
sjmooreco@netzero.com
http://www.tdi-dog.org