support,” C.J. Foster says. Currently, Paws of Love has 13 han-


dlers and 16 dogs. Although not required, Paws of Love


members wear red vests that identify them, so visitors understand the dogs are working therapy dogs. The dogs also wear a red heart on their collars or leashes that identify them as certified therapy dogs. The group takes their volunteer work


seriously. “We have built a reputation for being


where we’re supposed to be,” Lynda says, adding the only time visits have been canceled has been due to severe weather. As coordinator, Lynda helps match the dog and handler to the right environ- ment.


Some dogs do not work well children, or men, or people with Alzheimer’s, so she works with the dog and handler team to match visits with their abilities. Some of the dogs in the group have


received honors for their many hours of therapy work.


Charles’ dog Andy has received the distinguished honor through the Amer-


ican Kennel Club for completing 400 therapy visits, and has gone on to com- plete 500 visits. Lynda’s dog Barney has received the same honor, and is close to completing 500 visits. In 2014, Barney was the first dog in the country to receive the ad- vanced therapy dog title for completing 200 visits. Lynda’s dog, Katie, has also been recognized for completing 200 vis- its.


Paws of Love is completely volunteer.


Group members do not get paid and the group does not raise funds. Members of the group often attend area festivals, raising awareness about therapy dogs and their work. “We are dedicated to this,” Lynda


says. “Look at these smiles, how it brightens their day and warms their heart. This is our way to return to the community.” To find out more about certification


for therapy dogs and handlers, or to schedule Paws of Love to visit a local fa- cility, leave a message for Lynda at 431- 3912. To find out more about the national Alliance of Therapy Dogs, visit www.therapydogs.com. 


Learn more


For certification information or to schedule a Paws of Love visit to a local facility, leave a message for Lynda Dudek at 431-3912.


For information about the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, visit www.therapy dogs.com.


LIVING WELL  JULY/AUGUST 2019  27


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36