Cora's Magic

Cora is registered with Pet Partners as a Therapy Dog and sometimes that means working outside the norm.  This past week we took a fun trip to the Zoo and talked with 25 8th grade students that are interested in veterinary medicine.  Dr Molander from Banfield Vet Clinic was there to educate the young people on what  it takes to be a Vet and used Cora a a model for examining an animal.  Cora was a rock star throughout the exam and even stood still for the eager students to listen with their stethoscopes to her heartbeat!   Add another job description to what a therapy dog does.   In this case, Cora became a teacher to these young people, who where eager to learn about the training and work that a Therapy Dog undertakes.  

Therapy Dogs help to brighten the day!

Cora's work at Mayo not only is directed to patients, but also the hard working and dedicated staff.  Today's visit was a welcome one from a strong willed lady that has seen the benefits of therapy dogs in the healthcare setting from both a patient and staff member prospective.  Cora and her other Caring Canine friends have brought many a smile to her face during her months of treatment.  Seeing her smile and hearing her excitement as we enter the unit most certainly boosts the endorphins for everyone in the area.  Good endorphins make you feel happier and cope with stress and pain by making you feel more relaxed. Even Cora benefits by all the attention.  As you can see in the picture above, after all that belly rubbing, she is completely "relaxed"!

Cora has been kept busy these past 2 weeks with a visit from our Grandsons, Kyle 12yrs and Evan 7 yrs old.   A few days ago she was bitten by one of our nasty desert pests on her hind paw.  Here she gladly accepts being comforted by Kyle.  See, even Therapy Dogs need that special "magic" that comes from reaching out and touching.

Cora wears her paw protection when visiting her friends at Mayo Clinic!  Arizona is blazing hot this time of the year.  

Today when Cora and I arrived at Mayo, I was struck with the similarities between staff and patients.  In the radiation waiting area we met with a woman sitting patiently trying to put a puzzle together. With one hand on Cora, she studied the small puzzle pieces to see if they fit the pattern.  After a bit, we walked down the hall, where we met with our friends in Radiation Dosimetry.  Wikipedia describes it as follows: "Radiation dosimetry is the measurement and calculation of the absorbed dose in matter and tissue resulting from the exposure to indirect and direct ionizing radiation ."  Simply said, they put together a sort of puzzle at their computers for the patients radiation treatments.  Both the patient and staff focus intently on small pattern pieces, retracing their moves until the pieces fit. When the puzzle is complete there is a feeling of hope and accomplishment!   Cora sits patiently outside of Mayo Clinic Hospital today.

On June 14, Americans celebrate the adoption of the first national flag. Also known as the "Stars and Stripes" or "Old Glory," the first American flag was approved by the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. Today we honor our flag and what it stands for in this time of uncertainty.  Cora and I encountered many patients today who have fought for this country in past wars.  Now, they are fighting for their lives again, against a disease that should have been conquered years ago.  How humbled I am to see them reach out and touch a mere dog that for a few moments eases their battle.