Treats for Cora

Cora had a surprise today from one of her friends that she has been visiting with over the past several weeks.  Yummy peanut butter baked bones!

Challenging day today at Mayo.  We encountered quite a few patients that were far from home and missing loved ones.  Cora provided the needed comfort to one woman who made the 4 hour drive alone that day for her chemo treatment.  A Spanish speaking family had brought along a young girl that was afraid of dogs.  The little bit of the language that I know and Cora's bag of tricks, not only kept her entertained, but also almost erased her fear of dogs.  We met new friends that asked about therapy dog training, wondering if their pets at home could be candidates for such a program.  Cora is such a positive influence with the people we visit with at Mayo.  Anxiety levels seem to melt as the person pets her and makes that special connection that improves stress levels.  They say, that petting an animal boosts the immune system function.  If that be the case, then Cora and I are in the right place, helping people who are fighting for their lives.  Therapy dogs have a place in the medical community, heeling to heal.