Divine Canines

No One Knows My Name

2012-03-05T23:50:00.000-06:00

Sandy Aves

The following poem was written by Divine Canine Volunteer Alice Aves (Sandy's Mom) who is the site coordinator for St. David's Rehab. She and her canine, Sandy, make the weekly visit to spreading sunshine and smiles.

Every week I groom my dog
And put her in the car.
Drive to St. David’s Rehab
Where she’s a superstar.

The valets rush to greet us
And open up the door.
They say, “We’re so glad Sandy’s here!”
We couldn’t ask for more.

In her DC vest with tail held high
She trots down the hall.
The doctors cry out, “Sandy’s here!”
She’s loved by one and all.

Patients walk to greet her.
She does some tricks for treats.
I proudly stand beside her
And hold on to her leash.

The therapist says, “Sandy,
We are all so glad you came.”
And yet I’ve come to realize
That no one knows MY name.

So I thought that I should have
A name tag of my own.
So, I made one just for me
It says, “I’m Sandy’s Mom.”

*******
Alice Aves and Sandy

A Beautiful Day for a Hike

2012-02-26T14:29:00.001-06:00

Brian Bramlett with Oreo,
Lisa Saunders with Molly and Crowley,
Sarah Moore with Dudley, and Joy Nassour with Emma

Yesterday was our second group hike. This time we went to St. Edward's Park in NW Austin. The weather was just beautiful and so was the trail. There were several paths to choose from so we may have to go back sometime to try a different one.

There were 5 handlers and 7 wonderful dogs. Brian Bramlett with Oreo, Sarah Moore with Dudley, Lisa Saunders with her retired Divine Canine Molly and Crowley, Joy Nassour and her foster dog Emma, and Sharon Collins with Divine Canine Phoenix and family dog Cinnamon.

As we made the hilly climb, someone mentioned that at some point we were going to be going downhill. And then....there it was. The downhill climb. It was pretty steep but working together we all made it down safely.

View from the bottom.

We crossed a creek...twice. Once was over the road bridge and the second time was through it. The water was cold but refreshing. Once across the creek we thought we were on our way back to the cars. Just to make sure Lisa asked some hikers coming toward us and we found out we were heading in the wrong direction. We ended up following them until they could point the way out. Thanks you kind hikers.

The entire trek took about an hour and a half. Don't know about the others but when my two girls got in the car they were out of it.

Sharon Collins

Crossing the creek.

Lisa with Crowley and Molly

Joy with Emma

Brian with Oreo, Lisa with Crowley and Molly,
Sarah with Dudley, Sharon with Cinnamon and Phoenix

Brian with Oreo

Sarah with Dudley

Phoenix wondering why she has to
carry her own water and poop bags.

Joy with Cinnamon and Emma

Scooter's Second Visit to SDR

2012-02-17T10:01:00.002-06:00

Scooter made his second visit to St David’s Rehab hospital yesterday as a Divine Canines Therapy Dog. It was an awesome visit!! While several nurses did not remember me – they immediately remembered Scooter as the “Achoo” dog – who gets tissues out of the box when you sneeze!

Scooter went on all three floors twice…and visited quite a few rooms this time. Several people were interested in petting a “pit bull”. One patient asked for Scooter to get on his bed – which he happily did – and we had an incredible discussion about his dogs at home, his favorite pup of all time and his family (especially his granddaughter). We did receive two comments from nurses who shared they had never seen a dog visit that knew so many tricks…Scooter has added another one – He now will “salute” when asked – and I even got him to do his “Commando Crawl” along the floor!! When the music lady came by, I had her to hold her tambourine and Scooter threw some puppy beats on that!!

Jan Byrum with Scooter and Brian Bramlett with Oreo
in the halls at St. David's Rehab Hospital.

One nurse asked when Scooter would be back – she wants to bring her son to work that day!!! It was a great visit

Jan Byrum & Scooter

Rawson Saunders Book Drive

2012-02-16T14:02:00.001-06:00

ACE volunteer from Linder Elementary
Rebecca Len

Divine canines joined their partners at the Rawson Saunders School for a very special Valentine's Day celebration. Together we organized a book drive with the students at Rawson Saunders who wanted shared their love for reading with other students in the Austin community. With book bags made from fabric samples donated by our friend Joni Greeson at Collectic Home, the students went through the gently used books at home and chose those they would like to share. Our partners at the Westbank Community Library were very generous with their enthusiastic support and donated books as well. Together we collected over 500 books! WOW!

Mike Pizinger and his divine canine, Amstel,
read to the kids at Ruiz Library.
They also volunteer at Rawson Sanders.

The Rawson Saunders community did such an outstanding job we were able to deliver books to students our teams read with at Ruiz Public Library, SafePlace, and two elementary school programs served by the University of Texas A.C.E. (A Community for Education) tutoring program. We are so grateful for the opportunity to support efforts to improve literacy proficiency for our Austin area students.

Mindy Enderle, Coordinator of
VICTORY Program at Ruiz Public Library

PAWS UP for all who participated in this book drive. Seeing the smiles of all those who will enjoy these books was so rewarding for the teams that volunteer in the divine canines Barking Book Buddies programs.

Volunteer Lore Drott and Kelly Topfer (back)
Jeremy Drott and Brandon Topfer
with divine canine Cognac

Our First Group Hike

2012-02-11T18:43:00.000-06:00

An idea came about to invite divine canines teams to get together to go on hikes with their canines and/or other family dogs. This afternoon was our first scheduled hike and things didn't go quite as planned.

When I arrived at the Southeast Metropolitan Park (the site for the hike) I got quite a surprise. The first thing I saw was this sign. The hiking trail was CLOSED!!

There was no time to call everyone to let them know there was a problem. As the teams started arriving, everyone was understanding of the situation. We decided that the main thing was just getting together to work our dogs, so we stayed.

Donna Daniels with Arnette, Leah Alter with Frankie & Roxie,
Sharon Collins with Cinnamon & Phoenix, Joy Nassour,
Pat Phillips with Deano (Thanks Ruby for taking the picture)

We did find another shorter trail that we ventured down and back which was fun. Afterwards, played in the park with our canines.

Our group consisted of: Donna Daniels, her daughter Ruby (who helped by walking Roxie) and their divine canines Arnette; Leah Alter, her divine canine Frankie and other family dog Roxie; Sharon Collins, her divine canine Phoenix and other family dog Cinnamon; Joy Nassour, who came without her divine canine but graciously helped by walking Cinnamon; and Pat Phillips and her divine canine Deano.

All-in-all it was a great day and we had great fun. Plans are to get the group together for another hike in a couple of weeks.

Donna and Ruby Daniels with Arnette

Leah Alter with Roxie (l) and Frankie (r)

Pat Phillips with Deano

Sharon Collins with Cinnamon (l) and Phoenix (r)

Kelsie Rose Gets Busy

2012-02-11T09:38:00.000-06:00

Kelsie Rose and her handlers, Jennifer and Sid Millspaugh, graduated from the divine canines training in November 2011. Since then, they have been pretty busy checking out various sites that divine canines visit. This past week was really busy.

Kelsie visited St. Elmo Elementary on Wednesday where she is a Barking Book Buddy. Two students with reading challenges come in and read to her every week throughout the school year. They love that Kelsie never judges...she just listens and praises them for their hard work.

On Thursday Kelsie was at St. David's Rehab along with many other divine canines teams. It was her first visit there and she really loved it.

On Friday Kelsie could be found at Cunningham Elementary. There she works with special needs kids. This was her third visit there and she plans on continuing the every other week visits.

To read Kelsie's bio, go to www.divinecanines.org/bio_kelsie.php.

Thanks Kelsie Rose (and Jennifer) for becoming such active volunteers and spreading your joy everywhere you go.

Cora Visits Pueblo Norte

2011-12-28T19:57:00.000-06:00

Cora visited with the residents at Pueblo Norte here in Scottsdale, AZ today. Even though the temps were pretty mild, we met with a few residents outside enjoying the large snowman on the lawn. Holiday times are tough for people that are away from their families, so our visit was an uplifting one for several short term residents of the facility. They shared stories about how they missed their beloved canines at home, but quickly chimed in with "Cora gave me my dog fix for the day!"

One of our new friends sang "Jingle Bells" while Cora tapped on her bells to join in the duet. Staff, as busy as they were, stopped to laugh and smile giving even more meaning to our visit. Therapy dogs, the best present anyone could ever have!

Donna Jackson and Cora

Kim Phipps' First Visit

2011-11-27T23:29:00.001-06:00

Kim Phipps with her divine canine Ahzee

Dogs have given me so much joy that I wanted to share this special gift with others which motivated me to take the dog therapy training. Today was my first visit. We went to the Austin State Hospital and visited the Children’s area. What a fabulous Divine Canine team! One of the dogs was good at tricks and some kids smiled and enjoyed being entertained by a dog who could twirl, stretch tall, jump over a leg, crawl under a leg, and more. Other kids wanted to chat with the handler and chill out with a very relaxed dog. Another dog was social and kids asked to walk her around. Staff seemed to enjoy the dogs, the break in action, and a chance for their kids to smile and interact with visitors. One of my favorite interactions was with a young highschool football player. He was inseparable from a small dog who loved to cuddle. To watch the young man smile, grow peaceful, and open up, you sensed that the young man’s heart benefited from a small, loving dog, allowing him to pet and stroke him to his heart’s content. Today, our dogs made a difference in the day of these kids. What a gift for all!

Written by Kim Phipps

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
To see more of Divine Canines' work with the Austin State Hospital watch this video produced by KXAN.

Cora Goes to First Grade

2011-11-21T22:02:00.000-06:00

Cora is one of our special canines and her mom, Donna Jackson, is just as special. When Donna's husband took a job in Maryland a couple of years ago, Donna wanted to make sure that Cora continued to help others with her therapy work. So, Donna found an assisted living facility that welcomed weekly visits from Donna and Cora. They have since moved to Arizona and once again Donna has made arrangements with a facility there to allow Cora to spread her joy. Donna submitted the story below about a visit they made while visiting family in The Woodlands.

***********

Cora made a visit to the first grade classroom of Ms Oliver at Sally K Ride Elementary School in The Woodlands while we were visiting Texas. The children all read aloud "The Sleepy Puppy Book" while Cora graciously closed her eyes but didn't lose a word of the story listening with swiveling ears to every giggle. There are 21 children in the classroom. I explained Cora's role as a Therapy dog, how she visits sick and lonely people, helping to make them feel better. We brought with us "Read" book markers that the children colored and a handout saying that they were visited today by a Therapy Dog. Cora shared her bowling skills with the kids and a classroom full of "achoos" sent Cora running for the tissue box. One by one, all 21 students eagerly extended their hands for a "high 5" from Cora. It was then time for a doggie nap! The visit was great and we are invited back to see all four of the first grade classes on our next trip.

Donna Jackson and Cora

Austin Children's Shelter Visit

2011-11-20T23:51:00.001-06:00

Matt and Juliet get Hugo and Izzy
ready to go inside.

We had a great visit to the Austin Children’s Shelter Saturday. We had five teams: Sarah Herman with Oscar, Tiffany Kendrick with Nya, Sharon Collins with Phoenix, Matt Dirba with Hugo, and Juliet Dirba with Izzy. It was the first visit for recent graduates Matt and Juliet Dirba and they (and their canines) did a great job. The weather couldn’t have been better.

The visit was broken into 3 groups: the babies and toddlers, the boys dorm, and the girls dorm. We visited with the babies and toddlers in their outside play area. It was fun to watch them interact with our canines. The smiles on their faces were priceless.

After, we went into the boys dorm where they took a break from what they were doing to come visit with our divine canines. Some did tricks, some chased balls, and some just took all the petting they could get. Then we went outside where the girls came out to visit with us.

Oscar waits patiently with Sarah
for everyone to arrive.

The older kids asked all kinds of questions about our dogs. How do you train them to be so nice? How do you teach them how to do that trick? What does it take to become a therapy dog? What does a therapy dog do? All our handlers love talking about their dogs as much as the kids love visiting with them.

Nya has been a divine canine for many years but had been out of pocket for a while due to some thyroid issues. The team has just recently returned to volunteering and this was a great place to go. The three groups we visited were fairly small so Nya was able to enjoy the visits on a one-on-one basis...something all our teams enjoy.

Tiffany and Nya are ready to go.

Scooter's Second Visit to Fort Hood

2011-11-18T08:08:00.000-06:00

On Scooter’s first visit to Fort Hood he sat with a polite young soldier. It was an inside visit because of the weather. This soldier was a little bit quiet and a little cautious around Scooter. He stroked Scooter and shared a tiny bit about himself. He gave Scooter a couple of treats. I entertained him with Scooter’s tricks and anecdotes about training him and what Scooter liked to do at home. I thought it went okay; he warmed up to Scooter some – the visit lasted about 25 minutes. Scooter then spent about 10 minutes with a very shy soldier that loves pitties. And then we sat back and watched the others visit for the remainder of the time.

Soldiers with Scooter

Fast forward one month – Scooter again was visiting Fort Hood. We were sitting under the trees on a gorgeous morning. This same soldier was one of the first out of the building to head to the dogs. There was no “Hi Jan” or “What’s up Jan” – but there was a big “SCOOTER, YOU’RE BACK”!! He immediately sat down and started petting Scooter. He asked if he could walk Scooter – so I put a double leash on and off we went! We walked for 40 minutes with Scooter loving every minute! He was sharing about his 5 tours and his process. He talked about his little puppy at home asking all kinds of training questions, he told me his plans for when he gets out and where he was going! He wanted to stay longer but at the end of the hour he said he had told his supervisor it was an hour appointment – so he had to get back. He shared he thought he might get out in mid-December and he asked to have a couple of pictures taken with Scooter – so I took a few of him sitting with Scooter and walking him and sent them to him last night. I like to think he smiled when he opened that email.

Soldiers with Sara and Ranger

We went back under the trees and were visited by three other soldiers. It was an AWESOME day – and the visit time lasted right at 2 hours this time instead of 1!

When we were back in the parking lot, there were four soldiers that were in the field next to us. Scooter was walking in the field when they started asking about him, Divine Canines and asking if he was friendly and could they pet him! Soldiers seem to love the pitties. They were lovin’ all over him and he was in heaven!! I asked for a picture and they said yes, of course! After the photo shoot with Scooter, they also did one with Sara and Ranger!!

Sara with Soldiers

I thanked them for the pictures and then I thanked them for their service in the military. What a great, GREAT day!!!

Jan Byrum and Scooter

Ranger with Soldiers

Cunningham Elementary Visit

2011-11-07T22:16:00.000-06:00

Phoenix waiting to be petted.

We started our visits back to Cunningham Elementary last month. This is the third year for Phoenix and myself. It is one of our favorite places to visit. The kids and faculty are so wonderful to us.

Some of the kids are new to us but many we've seen in previous years. It's always fun to see how they remember our canines...by name. One of the new kids this year, according to his mother, has never pet a dog before. He was a bit hesitant, but couldn't resist joining in all the fun the other kids were having.

It's a real treat for the kids to get to visit with the dogs every other week. They are brought in to visit with the dogs in small groups. They have to sit "criss-cross applesauce" while waiting their turn. It's not easy for some but they know the reward if they do. They take turns asking to pet the dog, walk the dog, brush the dog, or feed the dog.

One team, who has been making the visits for the last two years(Jodi Gregg and Sookie) is unable to make the visits this year due to scheduling conflicts. Kids and teachers ask about Sookie and she is missed.

Kimberly Smith and Emma
waiting for the kids to arrive

Kimberly Smith and her canine Emma started making the visits last week. It was her first time there and they will be returning.

The past couple of years, Janelle Fox brought her Divine Canine Daisy to the visits. Daisy is a large Great Pyrenees who is blind. She is slow and steady and the kids love her. This year Daisy is making visits to another location so Janelle is bringing her other Divine Canine, Sugar, and there is no doubt, the kids love her as well.

Janelle Fox with Sugar

Rawson Saunders Fall Festival

2011-10-30T20:47:00.000-05:00

Ben sporting his Foresight Foundation
bandana

Some of our divine canines teams enjoyed the Fall Festival at Rawson Saunders School last Friday. We shared our 'tricks and treats' doggie bags with the students, their friends and parents. Emma, Clytie and Ben loved all the attention, the smell of all the carnival treats, and even seemed interested in the different costumes! It was a lot of fun for all of us.

During the festival we were presented with an incredibly sweet surprise. The Rawson Saunders community put together a book filled with stories, pictures, origami and poetry remembering their time spent reading with Waldo the first year of our partnership. This incredible and heartfelt gesture serves to remind all of our divine canine teams how important their presence is with the special populations they serve; what a great way to end the week.

Many of our dogs sport bandanas in recognition of our community supporters.

Christina Jeskey with Clytie

Clytie with student

Clytie sporting her Foresight Foundation
bandana

Girl Scout Troop 120 Helps Divine Canines

2011-10-30T13:51:00.000-05:00

Girl Scout Troop 120 of Pflugerville spent an afternoon stuffing, embellishing, and packaging 200 lavender sachets for a divine canines fundraising project. The afternoon was very relaxing and they got to enjoy lavender cupcakes for their help. They will be giving the sachets our for a $5 donation to divine canines. One woman who saw them took for 20!!

Divine Canines wants to thank these giving young women for volunteering their time to help us with our fundraising.

Sachet Fundraising Project

2011-10-28T17:22:00.000-05:00

Unfinished sachets

Volunteer Susan Bushart started a fund-raising project for divine canines where we give a lavender sachet to individuals who donate to our organization. Originally she was cutting out the dog shapes and sewing them up. Then she would have "finishing" parties at her house where other volunteers would help with stuffing and embellishing them.

Joni Greeson, co-owner of Collectic Home, who is a huge supporter of divine canines, donated the fabric for the project. It was upholstery fabric samples which allows us to make lots of different colors and prints.

Volunteer Carole Williams cuts fabric
squares to be made into dog sachets.

The project has really taken off. A couple of months ago the Texas Lassos partnered with divine canines making us their philanthropic cause this year. They wanted to help us with our fund-raising by passing out sachets for donations on the UT campus. They wanted 600 sachets so we had to get busy.

Our goal was to get the sachets stitched out so the Lassos could get together and do the finishing. They would stuff with lavender, stitch them closed and embellish them by tying ribbons around their necks.

Volunteers Carole Williams and Sharon Collins got together to cut fabric so the dogs could be stitched out on an embroidery machine. After getting stitched, the dog shapes are cut out and our logo ironed on the backside.

The Lassos have had one gathering and have a few more scheduled to complete the 600 sachets.

Divine Canines wants to thank the Texas Lassos for taking on this project and helping us raise money for our organization.

Q-tip Visits Brackenridge Hospital

2011-10-24T23:10:00.000-05:00

Thought I would share a little story about Q-Tip visit today at Brackenridge Hospital.

Our Monday Mornings start off with grooming Q-Tip. Once I put his jacket on, he is waiting at the door whimpering ready to go! He jumps in the car and we are off. Once I turn to go into the parking garage he is out of his seat and can't wait to get out of the car. Potty time, then in the front door we go. He struts his stuff like he owns the hospital. Nurses, doctors, patients and family members walk by and say "Hi" to Q-Tip. I'm invisible, which is fine with me. He has earned his position! Up the elevator to the 9th floor and the charge nurse is waiting with a list of patients patiently waiting to visit with Q-Tip. He goes from room to room with a very calm nature and brings so many smiles. We visit the nurses' stations and he is a different dog. Wagging tail and leans into everyone for his favorite back scratch. We also visit the volunteer office as well to say hi. They always offer him a drink after his busy morning.

Today on the way out of the hospital we decided to stop by and visit the ER to see if any nurses or doctors needed a visit. They were so happy and surprised. They really enjoyed him stopping by.

As we were leaving the hospital today, a van from South Rehabilitation was driving up to drop off a patient. We cross the walk and someone from the passenger seat was yelling across the drive "Q-Tip"! The man jumps out, walks in front of the van and is talking to Q-Tip telling him he has been missing him. We made a visit to the man a couple of months ago. Everyone just came to a sudden stop and was looking to see what the man was talking to. Q-Tip is so low to the ground you can't really see him. I asked him how he has been and he said "Well, I have been in rehab for a couple of months, I'll be back for another surgery, then back to Rehab and then I finally get to go home." Then he says goodbye and off he went to his appointment.

We love Brackenridge Hospital and everything that comes with it. So glad we picked it for our weekly visits. Wish we had more teams to come in. There are many more floors and so many patients, family members, nurses and doctors that would love to have someone come in and visit.

A lot of people who visit with Q-Tip ask what does he do when he is not at the Hospital? So, after almost 2 years, I made him a facebook page. Now everyone can go to his page and see his daily routines and information concerning Pet Therapy. It's from his point of view. I'm just the person who types it on for him! I post images from the internet that are common knowledge. I will never post a picture of patients or family members from Brackenridge Hospital even with a consent form. This consent form is for Brackenridge and Divine Canines only. I would like to post pictures now and then of the nurses with their permission of course!

Thank you so much for having us part of the Divine Canines of Austin and The Delta Society.

Holli Pietropaolo and Q-Tip

Teams Participate in CureSearch Walk

2011-09-27T19:44:00.004-05:00

Anna with Romy, Sharon with Phoenix, Jeaneen with
Chiquita, Lois with Sara, and Pat with Ranger

Seven divine canines teams particpated in the CureSearch Walk (Conquering Children's Cancer) last Saturday: Sharon Collins with Phoenix, Anna Madrigal with Romy, Jeaneen McMasters with Chiquita, Pat Mathews with Ranger, Lois Sturm with Sara, Kimberly Smith with Emma, and Sarah Herman with Oscar. The CureSearch Walk celebrates and honors all those whose lives have been affected by children's cancer, while raising funds for children's cancer research. There was a great turnout and we were proud to be part of the event. Even though they were asking people not to bring dogs to the walk, they were excited when I asked if we could bring our canines. Our teams work with kids with Autism, Down's Syndrome, reading challenges, and physical disabilities.

While waiting for other teams to arrive, we gathered to visit (volunteers and canines). We suited our canines up with their vests and were on the ready.

Before (and during) the walk, we visited with kids and families. We always love the smiles on faces when they see our canines in action. It was heartwarming and humbling to be walking with such courageous families.

The weather was beautiful. It started out pretty cool but got warm by the time the walk actually started. We were just glad it wasn't one of our 100+ degree days.

One volunteer, Jeaneen McMaster (with Chiquita) stayed behind to visit with those that were unable to participate in the walk.

After the walk was over, we were tired, but inspired by those around us. We watered our canines (and ourselves) and headed home.

One of the commitee members posted this video to You Tube of Phoenix and Romy on the walk.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udWsucUxfX0

Three of our canines were proudly sporting bandanas from two of our sponsor donors: the Foresight Foundation and LCRA Employees Association.

BookSpring Gets Books

2011-08-30T20:10:00.002-05:00

Board Member/Volunteer Susan Bushart dropped off 16 bags of books at BookSpring for their young adult readers. The gently used books were given to us from our partner the Westbank Library. BookSpring provides books, reading experiences and tools to children and their families so they can develop a desire to read and succeed in school. BookSpring’s vision is a community where all children have the opportunity to become literate.

Divine Canines partners with BookSpring through our participation in their Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) program. Through RIF, BookSpring serves over 21,000 children in Austin each year on AISD campuses, in local Head Start centers, and in other child development centers.

Six bags of books were also donated to the Rawson Saunders School another divine canines partner. The bags were made by Susan and other volunteers from fabric donated to divine canines from Collectic Home and repurposed men's ties.....divine canines is going green! Thank you Collectic Home for your support.

Visiting Fort Hood Soldiers

2011-08-06T06:44:00.000-05:00

Angela with Great Dane Gracie

I Live Here, I Give Here nominated Divine Canines, along with a couple of other non-profits, for KUT's Get Involved agency of the month! Divine Canines was selected and KUT videotaped our July visit to Fort Hood. Dogs are unspeakably amazing creatures!

Watch KUT Video

Heidi Armstrong shared this quote from her visit with one of the wounded warriers that day. 'Since being Medivaced out of Afghanistan with a traumatic brain injury last year, I have been totally unable to relax. I love Bella. She actually makes me feel calm, but she's so fun and playful too.' [Never underestimate the true healing power of dogs]

KUT Crew with Divine Canine Bella

Ruth with Golden Retriever Ben

Dave with Golden Doodle Magnolia (Maggie)

Pam and Standard Poodle Annie

I Live Here I Give Here

2011-07-06T16:59:00.000-05:00

The American Red Cross of Texas notes that more than 130,000 veterans currently reside in the Austin metro area. divine canines partners with the Wounded Warriors program at Ft. Hood to assist these veterans when they return home from war. The July 2011, Austin's I Live Here I Give Here organization's Community Needs Spotlight features the divine canine efforts to support these local heros. To read the article go to: http://www.divinecanines.org/ILHIGH_flyer.pdf

Both photos in the newsletter were taken by our divine canines president, Heidi Armstrong.

St. Elmo End of Year Party

2011-06-05T15:56:00.000-05:00

Divine Canines has a program called Barking Book Buddies where teams go to elementary schools to have students who may be struggling with their reading come read with the dogs. Each Divine Canines team is partnered with two students who they work with throughout the entire school year building a relationship and providing consistent encouragement with their reading.

At the end of each school year, the Barking Book Buddy teams at St. Elmo Elementary have a party for their reading buddies. The party is to celebrate their successes throughout the year with their reading and to encourage them to continue reading through the summer.

The students are given book marks with pictures of them with their Divine Canine. The librarian, Amy McFadden, gives the students certificates for their participation in the program.

Girls love to party and Phoenix looks on.

Rose waits patiently for her buddies
to come to the party.

Waldo and Maggie

2011-05-13T11:36:00.001-05:00

Maggie has been reading to Waldo at Laura's Library the entire school year. She has grown into an enthusiastic and confident reader while forming a truly special friendship and bond with her divine canine reading partner. The Laura Bush Community Library is throwing a party to kick off their summer reading program on Saturday, May 28th 10-1. Our pups will be there to share in the fun!

Young Women of Divine Canines

2011-05-04T14:21:00.000-05:00

Danielle and Elizabeth Herrmann are two young women that spend a lot of their time supporting divine canines. They have been with divine canines since the beginning along with their mom, Jane, and dog Rosie. Even though Danielle and Elizabeth were only 13 at the beginning of training, Lee Mannix saw that their maturity and interest should not be overlooked due to age. He believed they would be an asset to the group for a long time and not only included them as part of a volunteer handler/canine team but enlisted their assistance in the training of teams at ASH.

Last month they spent many, many hours cutting hundreds of fabric dogs and bones for our new sachet project. These will be stitched up and stuffed with lavender for sachets. Our goal is to give these out at events in appreciation of donations to our organization. They have enjoyed participating in volunteer gatherings to complete the sachet project and making bookmarks, also for marketing.

They have been collecting newspapers from friends and family for our drive for the Town Lake Animal Center, The Pflugerville High School Band and Library have been a great source of the papers, so much so that one day after collection, the van was so full, when the back door was opened, papers popped out like a cork from champagne. What a great way to support animal welfare and recycle for our environment all at the same time. Enlisting the help of their fellow students in this cause encourages our future generation.

In addition to all of this, Danielle and Elizabeth go on visits to many different sites and participate in events representing divine canines. The Austin State Hospital, The Austin State Supported Living Center and The Austin Children's Shelter, St. David’s Hospital are only a few of the locations they frequent. They have enjoyed helping young children develop their reading skills by participating in reading programs with Rosie and also individual tutoring of a friend's child.

They enjoy supporting volunteerism at many of the locations. Last month they participated in the ASH DASH to show their support of the programs and services of the Austin State Hospital Volunteer Services Council. Danielle ran the 5K and then walked with a patient finishing up the course. Elizabeth and Rosie walked with patients on a much more relaxed pace. Also at ASH, Elizabeth and Rosie participated two years in a row during Project HOPE where local artists and volunteers came together with patients and staff to put HOPE on canvas, The paintings created during this weekend long event were made to be hung throughout the hospital inspiring HOPE. Rosie's 2011 "tail waggin' "masterpiece is currently hung in the day room of Specialty Services .

When divine canines began visiting Fort Hood, they immediately said they wanted to participate and help the men and women who have served our country. They wanted to give back to the soldiers and this was just a small way of saying thank you. They would like to go to Fort Hood more often, however, their class schedule at High School does not allow for them to attend during the school year. Their Aunt and Uncle are very proud of them as they are were both active duty military personnel.

It takes a great deal of dedication and commitment to volunteer their time while still participating in High School Marching Band, National Honor Society and Science Olympiad.

Westlake High School students Jenny and Zerina collected recycled newspapers at the Laura Bush Community Library where they are active volunteers.

All these young women are great role models in our community and in their schools. We appreciate all they do. Paws up!

Cunningham Elementary Visit

2011-04-23T21:31:00.000-05:00

Every other Thursday, throughout the school year, divine canines volunteers visit Cunningham Elementary to work with special needs kids. At this visit was Jodi Gregg with Sookie and Sharon Collins with Phoenix. Here is a compilation of photos in a video of our visit on April 21, 2011.

Thank you volunteer Katie Jennings for joining us to take pictures so we can share our experience.

Frost Elementary Pet-a-Palooza

2011-04-19T17:39:00.000-05:00

A special shout-out to Ms. Mozingo at Frost Elementary. Thank you for helping bring divine canines to the school’s Pet-a-Palooza event which promoted family reading time. Romy loved hearing the children read If You Give A Pig A Pancake and other tales! Kamie, Rosie, Emma, and Q-tip had a great time too.

divine canines Collects Newspapers for Town Lake Animal Center

2011-04-17T20:59:00.000-05:00

Amy McFadden and Phoenix

divine canines is collecting newspapers for the month of April to donate the Austin Town Lake Animal Center. One of the uses for these newspapers is to line puppy cages.

St. Elmo Elementary School is helping out with a bin in the libary where several divine canines teams go for Barking Book Buddies. This program allows children with reading challenges to come in once a week to ready to the canines. The children love it because they get to interact with the dogs who do not judge them while they practice reading. After only one week the bin is almost 1/2 full. We thank Amy McFadden, Librarian, for her support of not only our newpaper collections but our Barking Book Buddies program as well.

The folks at Austin Regional Clinic's Central Austin Ob/Gyn office are also pitching in to help collect newspapers for TLAC. They are off to an enthusiastic start and will continue collecting for the remainder of the month.

Geneva Ramey, Dr. Paul Bushart, and Laine Bushart

Sabrina Godsey and Mary Brown

Rosalyn Lyles

Rosie Supports Project Hope

2011-04-08T16:15:00.000-05:00

Rosie and her masterpiece

Project Hope was created to bring a healing environment to the Austin State Hospital. Volunteers gathered at ASH to paint visions of hope based on a the answers given by patients to the following question: “What does hope look like?” Adult patients were also asked what could be done to help them, patients did not mention medications or therapy; rather, they overwhelmingly responded that they want to know that there is hope for their recovery from the symptoms of mental illness.

The paintings are hung in bedrooms, dayrooms and through out the campus as a reminder that recovery is possible as long as we keep hope alive.

Rosie is a regular visitor to the ASH campus on Sundays with her happy face and wagging tail. During Project Hope Rosie put her wagging tail to work after it was dipped in paint and created a work of art for all her friends at ASH to see. Her painting will be hung is the Specialty Services dayroom.
Jane, Elizabeth, and Danielle Herrmann
and Rosie

Cora Entertains at Atrium Village

2011-04-07T11:16:00.000-05:00

Cora continues to entertain the residents in The Memory Care Unit of Atrium Village with her bowling skills. The use of the word "entertain" is used lightly. We've been working with this one particular group now for about 9 months in this unit and sadly see the decline of their ability to focus, engage and stay connected with the "moment". The disease that has robbed them of their present and sometimes their pasts has somehow still allowed them widen their eyes with excitement and bring a smile to their face when Cora seemingly is saying to them, "Hey, look at me, watch what I can do, I'll make you laugh". They laugh, they focus and they engage with this funny little dog, if only for a few minutes. Those minutes are priceless to family members that can see a glimmer of their loved ones return from a dark journey. God surely has blessed us with these special dogs.

Donna Jackson and Cora

Mattie and Abby at Buckner Villas

2011-02-25T11:41:00.000-06:00

Mattie (Joy Nassour, handler), Buckner resident Kate Ward
and Abby (Raye Ward, handler)

What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than enjoying the people (and dogs) you love the most? Every other Sunday, two divine canines visit Buckner Harbors on East Braker Lane. Occassionally, you will find Pomeranian Mattie dancing (her pal Abby, a red nose pit bull, usually sits out that part of the entertainment). The dogs visit two new buildings which house the Harbors, which serve people who have memory loss. For those with mild dementia or who are in the early stages of Alzheimers, the dogs help residents share memories and sometimes even photographs. Hardly a visit goes by that someone doesn’t tell a story about their dog, horse or even bird. For residents with more severe forms of the diseases, the dogs are a calming influence and help them to focus on the passing moment.

Raye Ward

Cunningham Elementary Visit

2011-02-18T10:47:00.000-06:00

Phoenix and Daisy

Yesterday's visit to Cunningham Elementary had a little excitement. While we (Janelle with Daisy and me with Phoenix) were waiting for our first group to come out, the school's fire alarm went off. Everyone had to evacuate. We stood at the curb with the students and faculty for about 10 minutes before they let us go back into the building. That's when I noticed one of the students with autism that we visit with was refusing to go back inside. The teacher waved me over and asked if her student could walk Phoenix inside. I gave the child Phoenix's leash and immediately got a response. We calmly walked into the building together. It's one of those times when we are reminded that we are making a difference with these kids. Thank you Cunningham for allowing divine canines to be a part of your program.

Sharon Collins and Phoenix

Cora Works One-on-One

2011-01-16T21:02:00.000-06:00

Cora showed off her "bowling" technique in the Legacy Unit at Atrium Village this past week. Utilizing AAT (animal assisted therapy) has been documented to provide mental stimulation as well as physical and physiological benefits. Cora is now also working "one on one" with a resident recovering from a stroke. This is an exciting venture for us, being involved in an actual care plan with the nursing staff. We've started working on both fine and gross motor skills with our friend. Motivation is a key factor in this particular scenario, Cora being the prime "motivator". Our friend carefully picks up small treats and places them under the larger wooden puzzle pieces. Patience is a virtue here as Cora sits and waits for the command to "find". One by one Cora lifts the puzzle piece to find her "treats". As our friend engages in conversation (socialization) with us, she is rewarded with her own self confidence of being able to complete a skill. This is clearly demonstrated by the smile on her face as she states, "I love this dog". We end the session with Cora being brushed, a treat for both. We'll keep you posted with our progress.

Featured Article from Atrium Village

2011-01-03T09:27:00.000-06:00

Volunteer Donna Jackson and her divine canine Cora visit Atrium Village in Maryland. Here is the article featured in their newsletter.

Pet Therapy

Every Wednesday at 1:00 pm, Cora, the therapy dog, visits the Atrium Village Legacy Court residents. Residents look forward to interacting, petting, and watching Cora do her tricks. While residents feel they are simply enjoying the company of an outside four-legged visitor, they are really benefiting from Pet Therapy.

Pet Therapy offers strength in the following areas: rapport, entertainment, and acceptance. To elaborate, Pet Therapy is able to build rapport because animals can open a channel of emotionally safe, non-threatening communication between client and therapist. The animal’s presence may open a path through the person’s initial resistance. The presence of an animal provides much needed entertainment to those watching it. Even people who don’t like animals often enjoy watching their antics and reactions. Especially in long-term care buildings, it seems everyone is entertained by animal visits in some way that is different from the day to day activities.

Animals have a way of accepting without qualification. They don’t care how a person looks or what they say. An animal’s acceptance is nonjudgmental, forgiving, and uncomplicated by the psychological games people often play. They accept you the way you are. Pet therapy seems to be especially beneficial with senior citizens suffering from cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s. Many people with dementia experience periods of agitation, especially in the evening hours. This is referred to as “sundowning.” Sundowning is not only stressful for the person with dementia, it can be very difficult for caregivers as well. Studies have shown that regular contact with a pet can help decrease anxiety and increase feelings of calm and well-being, even during the difficult evening hours. Pets can also enhance the patient’s connection to his or her world. Even people with very advanced dementia will sometimes respond to the comforting presence of an animal even if they respond to little else.

For more information about pet therapy, please visit the following website: http://www.essortment.com/lifestyle/pettherapyanim_sglr.htm (as referenced in the article above).

If you would like to visit while Cora is visiting your loved one, please feel free to come by! Be sure to check out the picture of Cora and some of our residents.

Get a Dog Instead of a Facelift

2011-01-01T20:50:00.000-06:00

Here is a great article about therapy dogs that was in the Huffington Post today.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-tornambe-md/the-most-important-reason_b_797025.html

Happy New Year!!

2011-01-01T17:52:00.000-06:00

Cora sat patiently as she was crowned with a "tiara" for the New Year's Eve party at Atrium Village by one of her special friends. Moments shared with God's creatures remind us of the real reason to celebrate a New Year! The hope of easing loneliness, seeing a smile instead of a frown and of course feeling a love that is unconditional. All of our "divine canines" will be sharing in the joy of making 2011 a very Happy New Year!

Cora's Holiday Gift

2010-12-25T22:21:00.000-06:00

Cora "decked the halls" of Atrium Village to spread the Holiday Spirit this week. She brought with her a basket of "puppies" sporting big red bows for collars to the residents in the Memory Care Unit. It was great sharing with them stories of past Holidays and helping pick out names for their new pups. Cora loves her friends at the Atrium and looks forward to her visits as much as they enjoy seeing her.

Donna Jackson & Cora

A Christmas Story

2010-12-17T16:22:00.000-06:00

I didn’t know I was poor until I was 9 years old. I had never really traveled outside the two block radius between my house and Columbia Heights Elementary School. Then one day I came home from school and found my mom stealing some of my old toys and clothes and putting them in a care package. After as much hysterics and whining as my 9 year old mind could muster, my mom simply told me that there will “always be people who are richer than you and poorer than you.” I looked at her skeptically and still demanded to know why my stuff was being packed away. That’s when she told me. A little girl who lived down the block just lost her Dad. He didn’t die. He left. It was 2 weeks until Christmas. “Now she is even more poor than us,” she said. Huh? More poor? So, there it was. The moment it had finally dawned on me that I was one of those poor people I kept hearing about. Great.

Being a master at the art of guilt-tripping, my mother lamented that the care package was only half full. If only there were more unwanted, ill-fitting clothes or seldomly-played-with things to put in there. (I told you, she was a Master). Momentarily inspired, I grabbed some more of my unwanted stuff from my room. Then I spotted the most dreaded outfit a 9 year old girl could have: A deep purple velveteen pant suit with little pink flowers and a pink sateen lining. The dreaded and rarely worn pant suit was courtesy of Mom, the little seamstress she was. “Sorry mom.” I thought with a devilish grin. In the box it went. I was feeling pretty good. Finally, with one last surge of good will, I picked up the unopened shoe box that housed my prized patent (fake)-leather Mary Jane’s. The shiniest, prettiest, shoes I owned. The shoes I never wore outside the carpeted part of my room for fear of scuffing them. The shoes it took my mom 3-months to save up for. Before I could change my mind, I grabbed the shoebox and threw it in the care package and went outside to catch my breath.

My dog Bobby ran up to me as usual and licked my face and neck until I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. Bobby always knew how to cheer me up. Bobby was a medium-sized, tan and white mutt. He had a serious looking face but grinned like the Cheshire cat. He had an upturned, white tipped tail. He was my best friend.

That evening, we sealed the box and decorated it with a big red bow from my mom’s stash of salvaged Christmas gear. I walked with my mom and Bobby down the street to the family’s house. I didn’t really know them. The kids always looked unkempt and sad. I usually tried to stay away from them. We arrived at the house and carefully placed the box on the family’s porch before anyone could spot us. It read simply: From Santa.

Christmas Vacation came and went and it was time to trudge it back to school. Bobby was the unofficial mascot of my elementary school. He walked me to and from school every single day, rain or shine. He walked with dignity--head up, tail slightly curled, trotting. Like clockwork, as soon as we entered the school grounds, we were greeted by Bobby’s cadre of friends—my classmates who normally ignored me but treated him like a rock star. Bobby let the kids jump on him and in return he gave them giant kisses.

Then, my heart stopped for a second. From the corner of my eye I saw them. The shiniest, prettiest Mary Jane’s. They were just a little too big for the little girl wearing them. Her hair was meticulously combed into two long braids and pink, embellished hair ribbons decorated each braid. Her white dress fit her like a glove. It was decorated with little yellow daisies, my mother’s favorite flower. Her face was beaming as she bent down to pet my Bobby. Maybe she was filled with the happiness of seeing her friend Bobby or of having those sweet Mary Jane’s. But I’d like to think the light in her eyes was her new found pride. When I was 9, I found out that I was the richest girl in the world.

Romy

Volunteering for Divine Canines makes me feel like I’m sharing my Mary Jane’s all over again. My scrappy Bobby would have been a great therapy dog. Today, I find my inspiration in Romy, the sweetest, most empathic dog I’ve ever known and a recent addition to Divine Canines.

Anna Madrigal

Chi Makes Adjustments

2010-12-12T06:29:00.000-06:00

We adopted Chi in December 2004 from a sheltie rescue group, Houston Sheltie Sanctuary. He was a beautiful one year old, full-pedigree, and came with the recommendation of obedience training. What we didn't know was that he had had the run of the household with his previous owner and was accustomed to being the alpha male of the house. On top of that, he had acquired giardia somewhere along the way from Houston to Austin. Although we didn't realize it at the time, his painful bowel movements made him act up even more. We came home one day to shredded pillows, CDs, cardboard boxes, and a very willful adolescent.

If we hadn't started him with the obedience training right away and had him checked out at the vet, I don't know if all three of us could have made it. The trainers at the Lee Mannix Center for Canine Behavior were a godsend. Their original description of Chi was that he was "very sensitive, very smart, and a little bit spoiled." How right they were! They taught us how to be the alphas of our pack by eating first, choosing the sleeping hours, and deciding when to play. Chi's world turned upside-down, and he was not happy about it. Fortunately, he also decided that being crated or being picked up was the ultimate punishment, and he quickly gave way to the new order. And once the giardia finally cleared up (after about a month!) he became a sweet, responsive member of the family.

He passed his Canine Good Citizen exam, took several classes of Agility, and finally ended up in Divine Canines. At first he was very shy and uncomfortable around strangers who wanted to pet him, but he would tolerate it with enough treats to focus on. Now he looks forward to the days when he puts on his vest, and has no qualms about getting hugged, laying in laps, or giving out shakes -- often without being asked. He has turned out to be the beautiful, intelligent, and athletic dog we were looking for ... after a little bit of readjustments!

Agnes and Chi

Help Out Divine Canines

2010-12-03T13:25:00.000-06:00

Volunteer Susan Bushart has been working on a fundraising project partnering with Collectic Home (a store near Sprouts off of Bee Cave Road). She has designed clutch purses out of discarded designer wool rug samples. Collectic Home will be selling them for $30 each with 100% of the proceeds going to divine canines. She did this last year raising over $1,000 for Westbank Library (a divine canines partner).

The purses are currently on display at Collectic Home, 2785 Bee Caves Road. Saturday, December 4th, they are having an event (open to the public) featuring a local jewelry designer from 3:00 - 8:00 pm. Hors d'oeurves and cocktails will be served. It would be a great opportunity to view the purses and support divine canines by purchasing one.

Wilson - The Perfect Name

2010-12-02T08:01:00.000-06:00

I adopted Wilson from the Town Lake Animal Shelter in the summer of 2008. I had gone to the shelter with a mental picture of what I was looking for. I love the herding breeds, and needed a dog with original markings and big ears – and boy, did I find exactly what I was looking for!!! Wilson is a very different looking dog; he has huge ears and a body with a thousand spots. But, the most interesting part of his look is his solid brown head. It looks like someone took another dogs’ head and snapped it onto his body. I knew I had to adopt this dog! However, he had some issues – he was still un-neutered, had kennel cough, and had heartworms. They told me that I could not adopt him that day, because he needed to be neutered first. But, because I work at a veterinary clinic and was willing to pay an extra adoption fee for them not to neuter him, I was allowed to take him home. But first, I had to bring my other dog (Olivia) there for a meet-and-greet to ensure that they got along. I brought Olivia to the shelter within the hour, and the shelter staff brought Wilson out to meet her. And, how did Wilson say hello? He peed on her head! I guess he needed to mark her as his new girlfriend! Olivia and Wilson have been best friends since.

It didn’t take long for me to realize Wilson’s “flaws”. He was not house-trained, was a trash digger, and would climb on top of my kitchen counters searching for food (and then get stuck up there because he was too scared to jump down). He was a handful! Luckily, he was a smart boy that was eager to please, and I was able to teach him what’s wrong and what’s right very quickly.

The only issue I couldn’t figure out was his name. The shelter named him “Riley”, but that was my friend’s dad’s name, and that seemed wrong. But, I couldn’t find the right name for him. Days turned into weeks, and he still had no name. Finally, I asked my boss, and he said, “Pick something that will sound good when you scream it at him.” That’s when I got the mental image of Tom Hanks in the movie Castaway – that scene where his volleyball Wilson is floating away, and he screams, “WILSON”. I thought it was perfect! I was later told by my grandma (whose maiden name is Wilson) that she was honored that I named my dog after her. She was too excited that she finally had a grandchild (yes, he is my child) named after her, I couldn’t tell her the truth!

Wilson loves being a part of the Divine Canines team. He is not picky about which facility he visits, as long as someone is there to give him attention and treats!

Julie & Wilson (and Olivia)

Q-tip is a Perfect Fit

2010-11-30T10:30:00.000-06:00

My sister died of cancer when she was 18 yrs old. I was 20. She had a yellow Tom Cat that was very affectionate and loved her. I know from our personal experiences that animals can help you feel better emotionally and they love you no matter what you look like or what situation you are in. This started me on my path to divine canines.

When my oldest daughter was in high school I started thinking that I wanted to train a dog for the blind. Well, that wasn't possible since I didn't know how. I was raising labrador puppies at the time so I thought I would donate one of the puppies so they could train it for someone. Didn't work out, and it was complicated. My oldest daughter graduated and then came my youngest daughter in high school. During the seven years of FFA my girls were showing, lambs, goats and pigs. I loved it because my daughters and I would spend a lot of time together working with the animals and getting them ready for Livestock shows. We even had a Sheep Dog (Simba), who we thought would run the sheep but he would herd them. He is going on 16 years old now.

When my youngest daughter was a senior, I started thinking I wanted to donate my time doing something to give back and try to bring some kind of joy to patients in hospitals. They sometimes feel lonely and miss their pets at home. I started researching therapy dogs and their benefits. I set my goal high and in order to do that I would have to have a great dog in so many ways. The dog had to have an outgoing personality and be easy going.

After searching and putting information together I came up with the breed I wanted...Bichon Frisé. That is French meaning "curly white lap dog". I found a breeder in Leander, Texas and picked the smallest one. We named him Q-tip. He ended up being big for his breed. We started training at PetsMart at about six months old and went through all the classes. Then we found the AWESOME Divine Canines of Austin. I also contacted a few other therapy dog groups and they were not as welcoming.

We passed the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) training and divine canines testing and we were in. We started at the Austin State Hospital which was nice but I still felt like we had not reached our initial goal which was to go into a hospital setting. We found out that Q-Tip and I both had to be certified through the Delta Society and have a complex certification to go into patients' rooms. So, we trained and both were tested and passed.

As fate would have it, a couple of weeks after we were Delta certified, Paul Mann (the Divine Canines trainer) sent an email out to the group saying Brackenridge Hospital was requesting a group to come out and visit the 9th floor which is Cancer and Brain Injury. I was so excited. We went and met the staff and nurses and everyone was so glad that they actually had a therapy dog that could go into the patients' rooms.

My prayers are being answered with Q-Tip. I feel it all the time when we visit a patients and see their reactions. You never know when you get a dog if they are a fit for what your looking for, but you love them anyway. I am very thankful for my Divine Canine!

Holli and Q-tip

Sweet Sugar

2010-11-28T06:40:00.000-06:00

The first time Sugar, my deaf pit bull, was mobbed by a group of screaming neighborhood children, I knew I was in trouble. Why? Because she LOVED it. She loved those kids poking her and petting her, she loved them giving her treats and trying to get her to do tricks using signs. I don’t have children, nor do I have plans to have them anytime soon, but Sugar’s delight in interacting with kids was so obvious that I knew I had to give her an outlet for it.

Fast forward to Divine Canines – since Sugar and I graduated from training we’ve visited the Austin State Hospital Children’s unit, the Austin Children’s Shelter, and Helping Hands Children’s Home. We had our first visit to Helping Hands last Sunday. As soon as the dogs come in they’re just mobbed by kids, Sugar barely had room to turn around, let alone do the tricks the kids kept asking her to do. It was a crazy scene; fortunately Sugar is calmer under pressure than I am.

As great as it is to see Sugar handling a crazy group of kids with poise, the real treat for me is when things begin to calm down again – the large groups of kids disperse as some of them move on to other activities while others begin visiting with the other dogs. There was one older boy who stuck with me and Sugar for almost our entire visit. He wanted to get her to roll over, her most complicated trick and one that she almost never does for people other than me (it relies on several hand signs and if they’re not all just right she’s not sure what she’s being asked to do). The boy was patient, both with Sugar and with himself, and in the end he got her to roll over. For someone lucky enough to own a dog it’s a simple thing, but his smile of accomplishment told me it meant a lot to him.

That's the best part of volunteering with Divine Canines - when something that seems simple takes on additional meaning, when the act of sharing your dog with someone else makes even the small things mean so much more.

Ann & Sugar Skull

Divine Diva

2010-11-23T22:24:00.000-06:00

My beautiful standard poodle Annie is an elegant Divine Canine, the ultimate frou-frou chien. But I'm embarrassed to be seen in public with her! Say what?!

I'm such an advocate for rescue dogs that I'm embarrassed that someone would think I went out and paid big bucks for this dog. Especially when we pass the pens of adorable and/or lonely looking dogs outside every pet store. I want to holler, "She's a rescue! She's a rescue! Really!"

Most likely, Annie is the product of a puppy mill. She and three littermates were taken to TLAS at maybe three months old, and they all had mange so bad they couldn't eat or sleep for scratching. And scratching to the point of bleeding. My dear friend Lisa Maxwell, now with Austin Pets Alive, nursed them back to health.

My home already was full of two large dogs--one large in size, the other large in ego--and I certainly did not need or want another dog. And my friend Lisa knew that. She also knew that I had said the only way I would take on another dog is if she was the reincarnation of a very dear elderly friend who believed in reincarnation. Like many women her age, our friend Annie had perfectly coifed white hair. And along comes this sad little dog with not-so-perfectly coifed white hair. Lisa kept sending me pictures so we agreed to a house visit to see how my dogs, and my husband, got along with her.

She fit right in with the pack and my husband was first to say "Let's keep her."

That isn't the end of the saga about our Annie. She bonded with me immediately because I work from home and she was always with me. But if I left for any period of time she would dig up and eat the carpet! And no, it's not biodegradable. After a number of months, she seemed to settle down and the carpet had no new holes. We hired a pet sitter to keep an eye on all three of them to go on a vacation. The very next morning, the pet sitter found Annie had been busy all night digging and eating the carpet. We were concerned she would have a bowel blockage. The sitter advised going to training with Annie to help her get over her insecurities. I couldn't imagine how that would help, but I was desperate.

That's how I met the legendary Lee Mannix. He was taken with Annie's story because in the Native American tradition, white animals were considered to be the reincarnation of someone special. He also said poodles are closest genetically to the wolf of all the canines. Lee was not so impressed when we cut Annie's fur and died it burnt orange to look like a UT cheerleader.

Nonetheless, we finished the training class and one of the trainers suggested Annie would make a good therapy dog. And you know the rest of the story.

Pam Baggett
Mom to Callie, Monica, and Annie

PB&J

2010-11-20T06:30:00.000-06:00

It was a winter afternoon when I decided to pop in at the Austin Humane Society. I did not want a dog but just to investigate volunteer opportunities. Sound familiar to anyone? I was still grieving over the loss of my beloved golden, Katie (who just happened to be a Therapy Pet Pal of Texas who did her best work at Austin’s Heartland). Of course I couldn’t leave without just “walking through” the kennel area. There were countless wonderful dogs and oodles of puppies but what caught my attention was a speckled paw hanging out of D-32. I read Fandango’s bio sheet and went home for the evening. I couldn’t sleep. Not a wink! I could hardly stand it until the shelter opened on Monday and I could go back to inquire about the dog who had been surrendered at 6 weeks of age. He had been there for the first 6 months of his life.

I filled out the paperwork and got to visit with a curious young and aloof pup that totally stole my heart. The next day, Fandango (now known as Jake) came home with me. At his first vet visit, it was determined that he had OCD (not the compulsive kind) but more of a birth defect where he did not have much cartilage in his shoulder joints. Amputation or expensive surgery and rehab….not what you want to hear three days after adopting a dog. But he was mine and dearly loved, so we did what we had to do.

Heel to Heal…the Divine Canine’s motto. Jake needed to “heal” first and in the process allowed me to heal, and the rest just fell into place. It took awhile to make all the connections, but helping Jake recover and learn (the other kind of heel) created a new therapy dog…not just for me, but for countless others.

Jake absolutely loves his work. From the students and special friends at Gullett Elementary, to soldiers at Ft. Hood, to the patients at the Austin State Hospital, and the clients of the Austin State Supported Living Center, and whoever he may meet along the way, there is always a big smile, clever tricks, and the non-stop power wagging of the fluffy tail! Don’t look at him unless you want your day to be brightened!

Patti Brauss and Jake
AKA PB&J

Happy Tails Video

2010-11-18T18:33:00.000-06:00

Volunteer Donna Jackson created a Smilebox video highlighting visits to Gullett Elementary. Working with the special needs children there is truly rewarding for the divine canines teams. You can see on the children's faces how much they enjoy it as well.

Smilebox Video

Lady LaLa

2010-11-18T06:19:00.000-06:00

LaLa, 18 months old and covered in mats, filth, and bugs, looked into my eyes and soul with a prayer of hope and longing. She jumped into my arms with the classic Aussie hug. I couldn't walk away from her, even with 2 four-month-old puppies and recently rehomed giant retriever mix at home. I changed her name from Toffee to Tefillah, which means prayer.

LaLa is a very small Aussie with an enormous heart. She immediately took over the job of raising the young ones, even though they quickly become taller than her. She protected her older sister whom I also adopted. Big sis was so shy and fearful, I only ever saw her at meal times.

LaLa's favorite dog in her new pack, however, was Blue, my big red retriever mix. She would swim with him, herd him from the shore when he was taking too long, and wrestle him frequently. What a riot to see this dainty little 33 pound dog, leap onto a solid 100 pounder, drag him around, and even wrestle him to the ground. No wonder there are fireworks for her birthday every year! La will be four on New Year's Day 2011.

A few months later, Blue had achieved his goal of becoming a divine canine, the pups had their CGCs, and I could finally focus on this beautiful, industrious, intelligent dog.

She loved tricks class and exceeded all expectations. She tried flyball, but didn't enjoy it even though she was good at it. Once she took her first agility class, she was hooked, and again exceeded all expectations.
A year ago, her best friend Blue died. She became a divine canine to continue his work. LaLa loves to come to school with me and has infinite patience with young children. She practices agility with passion. She works in a dog kennel, patiently supervising playgroups. She wrestles her "puppy", now twice her height and weight. She would love to play ball, but isn't allowed to since she injures herself with her leaping, twirling, and diving catches.

Working as a divine canine, people remark on her calmness and gentleness. She has another side, this super intense drivey dog, that comes out when she plays or runs agility.

La is the answer to a prayer I never knew I had offered. Her prayer for safety and love has been answered, and so she works every day to discern and answer the prayers of everyone she meets.

Amy and LaLa

Mickey Makes a Difference

2010-11-16T08:06:00.000-06:00

Mickey has been a divine canine since 2007. When we graduated from therapy dog training, a wonderful volunteer, Joy, took us under her wing and helped us get started. Our first volunteer experience was at a summer camp for children with autism at an elementary school in Cedar Park. There were several other divine canines teams there, and their dogs knew so many tricks to entertain the kids, that I became determined to teach Mickey some, too. (He now knows how to clean up his own toys!)

One of the divine canines on that visit was a large, black Labrador retriever named Jake who was laying patiently on the floor, ready for anything. I remember that one of the children draped herself across Jake's back and just stayed there, comforted and happy. We - the teachers and volunteers - were so moved by this quiet and beautiful scene.

Since then, Mickey and I have gravitated to places where there are children. We visited the Moore-Weis School for children with communication difficulties for several years before it closed and currently visit the Helping Hand Home, a residential facility for abused and neglected children and St. Elmo Elementary School, where children who are behind grade level in reading read one-on-one to our divine canines each week in our Barking Book Buddy program. We've also visited soldiers recently returned from Afghanistan who suffer from PTSD at Fort Hood and people recovering from injuries at St. David's Rehabilitation Hospital. We love divine canines for giving us meaningful and rewarding work to do and for all it does for the community!

When Mickey is not volunteering, he is bugging his humans to play fetch or waiting for something better than his usual dinner to appear in his dinner bowl.

Lisa and Mickey

Bella's Barking Book Buddy

2010-11-14T09:58:00.000-06:00

Rescued at the Town Lake Animal Shelter by her handler, Heidi Armstrong, Bella loves interacting with children during Barking Book Buddies reading time and visiting wounded warriors at Ft. Hood. Bella's versatility makes her an exceptional therapy dog. In one therapy session she can run the gamut of laying on a wounded soldier's boot for comfort and calm love to running, flipping and jumping while catching her frisbee. Bella and Heidi have a special bond with their Barking Book Buddy student, Melvin, who they have been reading with for three years.

See Bella's video.

Heidi Armstrong and Bella

Texas Twister's Destiny

2010-11-12T07:14:00.000-06:00

Texas Twister is an Australian Shepherd born in Illinois in 2003. His father was a cow dog and his mother helped with the horses. Despite Texas' farm roots, he knew he was destined for greater things.

When he met his human-mom he knew they would never part. She let him try all sorts of wonderful things like herding and agility to see what he would like best. Nothing seemed to fit. He was so eager to please his mom. He performed beautifully in his training classes. He wanted to be the best for her.

Then one day his mom noticed a bump on his leg. They went to the veterinarian. They found out that one of the bones in Texas' leg had stopped growing. "Oh no", he thought, "now I will never find my destiny". But all was not lost. His mom took him to a very special hospital where he had surgery to fix his leg. His mom had to give him even more love and help him heal. Texas would be just fine.

One day she asked him if he wanted to become a Divine Canine and bring love to other people. He said, "Yes! That is what I will do!" Texas is so happy to bring healing to people. He found his destiny...to be petted by everyone!

Emily and Texas

Letter to Santa

2010-11-11T19:24:00.000-06:00

Volunteer Donna Jackson wrote a wonderful letter to Santa asking him to help us out. Take a moment to read it and share it on your FB.

Read Letter

Kamie's First Visit

2010-11-10T06:49:00.000-06:00

Kamie, Amie with a K, has a very unique name. For she is a very unique dog...fluffy white hair and soft as a cloud. Which brings me to a visit that warmed my heart. It was our first trip to the State Assisted Living Center and I really did not know what to expect. What we walked away with makes me smile and fills me with joy every time I think about it. There were several patients sitting and walking around enjoying all the dogs. One patient sat, head down, arms limp and an expressionless face. I brought Kamie over and asked if she could meet this patient. No response. I picked Kamie up and put her within hands reach and slowly a hand moved towards her. As I felt the patient was more comfortable with Kamie, I placed her in the patient's lap. This patient transformed from lifeless and limp to stroking Kamie, rubbing their heads together, and the biggest, warmest smile. Kamie's soft fur on the patient's head was comforting and soothing. Kamie was content to sit there and I have a memory that will last forever. A single visit that changed a moment for this patient, giving comfort, creating cognitive response, creating memories.

Christina and Kamie

Caleb Passed the Touch Test

2010-11-08T10:09:00.000-06:00

Caleb is a rescue dog that I got when he was about a year and a half old. He absolutely loves to work with children at the children’s shelter or at events like the Texas Book Fair.

When I was looking for Caleb I knew I wanted a male black lab mix around one or two years old. There were so many wonderful dogs that fit that description and needed homes; I had no idea how I would choose the one for me. I had read somewhere in a book that a great way to determine how much of a people person a dog is, is to watch how they respond to touch. I visited several great dogs who were excited to meet me but more excited to run around the yard and play. They brought out Caleb who showed me his ball skills by rolling the ball to me with his nose. Wow, what a talented dog, but now it was time to do the touch test. I brought my friend and her young son with me on my journey, and we put away his ball and took turns petting Caleb. He became instantly calm and just melted into our hands, and I knew this was the dog for me. He had the potential to bring the gift of touch and being touched to others. He graduated over the summer from Divine Canines and the rest is history….

Courtney Esparza and Caleb

Ruby Found Her Forever Home

2010-11-07T07:35:00.000-06:00

Ruby was rescued as a puppy from the shelter by Blue Dog Rescue. She was adopted to a couple who later returned her due to a change in family status. That's when I found her...or she found me.

I started training with her because of her leash skills and became interested in Divine Canines while at dog camp. She loves her work with Divine Canines because she gets so much attention and love from the folks we visit. She loves Austin State Hospital and Fort Hood as well as Austin Children's Shelter and Helping Hands for Children.

She is 7 now and has lived with me for almost 5 years.

Pat and Ruby

Moby and Cora Represent at A&M

2010-11-06T06:46:00.000-05:00

Moby, Pearl, Cora, Julie and Donna Jackson all went to Texas A&M on October 26, 2010 to lecture to the Texas A&M Veterinarian Student Behavioral Club about the Myth of Pit Bulls and how we are using them as therapy dogs. The dogs were in costume as folks entered the class and completely stopped the traffic in the halls and greeted many new people all with glee. Cora (in foreground) was in attendance so we could show the audience how well pit bulls do get along with other dogs as well as have another beloved Divine Canine present.

We took the place by storm! I wore my Divine Canine T-shirt and had a slide in the presentation with Moby's photos of all his visits at Divine Canine venues. The images in the presentation all showcased how tender and loving Moby is with his kids. Moby's standard visits are to Gullett Elementary, Barking Book Buddies and Reading is Fundamental at Pickle and Dawson Elementary. We made quite the splash at Texas A&M and were very proud to represent this great breed and Divine Canines all in one presentation. The photo attached is a shot of just how lovely all three dogs were in brand new room with all that technology, me talking away, and new people. Moby even seems interested in what I am saying.

Julie and Moby

Sookie's Story

2010-11-04T14:06:00.000-05:00

At just 3 months old, Sookie's owners knew she was something special. Despite being a very young puppy, Sookie took to her 'basic training' lessons very well and had a calm and loving temperament. Sookie was going to be a great therapy dog. She started the therapy dog training as one of the youngest dogs to go through the program. She started working at just a year old! Now, at just two years old, Sookie loves traveling all over Austin to be with people. Her favorite spot is Cunningham Elementary school, where Sookie visits with lots and lots of children during her therapy time. She just loves the attention, secretly wishing she was a lap dog. She's a huge fan of the Lake Travis community, and tries to make all the LTISD events, where dogs are allowed. Last week, Sookie attended the LT homecoming parade and pep rally, where she stole the show (in her owner's opinion). She is an English Golden Retriever and lives in Lakeway with her family of boys, another golden retriever, and an orange cat named Kevin. Sookie is looking forward to a long and full life with Divine Canines.

Jodi and Sookie

Cora is Working in Maryland

2010-11-03T09:23:00.000-05:00

There is a big wide sky and many miles that separate Austin, TX and Owings Mills, MD. The one thing that continues to link the two cities is a medium sized rescue dog that continues the "heel to heal" spirit that divine canines instilled in Cora when she became a Therapy dog over a year ago. Cora and I started visiting a "Memory Care and Hospice Unit" here at Atrium Village.

Every Wednesday we are guests of those that, for even a short time, enjoy a quality of life that seems hidden in their eyes. It's evident that Cora recognizes the need for those eyes to open wide and see the outside world again. She's always anxious to go beyond the locked doors and see her special friends. We've met a former concert violinist, professors, nurses, Broadway performers and many more that have their memories locked inside their thoughts. Pictures of their pasts decorate their rooms and show a glimpse of their happy times. What a wonderful experience to watch as they lift their bowed heads and reach for Cora as she rests her head on their knee staring back up into their eyes waiting for a response from them. She's persistent, it's almost like a staring contest, but she always wins. Our hosts open their eyes wide, call her name and even ask to give her a "cookie". One special friend hasn't spoken to the staff in months, but when Cora came to her side she laughed and said "good dog". Thank you God for small wonders wrapped in furry skin.

Donna Jackson and Cora

Where's Waldo?

2010-10-28T16:19:00.000-05:00

He could be at one of the Westbank Community Libraries where children read to him. Or he could be visiting patients at the St. David's Rehab Center. Regardless of where he is, he's hard to miss.

Waldo may be the youngest divine canine......he turns 2 years old the end of November. Last year his first birthday fell on Thanksgiving day.....and we remain incredibly thankful that he shares not only our lives, but with so many at St. David's Rehab, the children who read to him at the Westbank Community Libraries, and the students who have met him through the Reading Is Fundamental programs. We look forward to expanding the literacy therapy dog programs in the Austin area.

Waldo lives with his Newfoundland 'sister' Macy who is 6 years old, and two rescue cats. Newfoundlands are known for their instinctive skills as water rescue dogs. Their feet are webbed and they instinctively rescue people and other animals who they see struggling in the water. Some beaches use Newfoundlands that work with the lifeguards and many fisherman take them on their boats in case someone falls overboard. Waldo swims every weekend at Lake LBJ, loves boat rides, evening walks and rides in the car.

Susan Bushart
Waldo's Mom

Our Largest and Smallest

2010-10-28T14:26:00.000-05:00

Meet Chula and Waldo. They are currently divine canines' smallest and largest canine. While Chula weighs in at 5.4 lbs soaking wet, Waldo comes in at a whopping 137 lbs. They can often be found together spreading joy at the St. David's Rehab Center.

Miss Chula (an 11 1/2 year old Chihuahua) loves to dress up for her visits (as you can see in the photo). She was in the second class to graduate from divine canines training five years ago. The question most often asked of her owner is, "Where did you get a Chihuahua with such an unusual color?"

Waldo is very calm and slow moving which keeps all those around him calm. Waldo turns 2 the end of November. If he is not the youngest divine canines, he is at least one of the youngest.

Our Work With Kids

2010-10-26T21:49:00.000-05:00

Volunteer Anna Madrigal created this excellent video showing our canines working with kids. Take a moment to check it out. If you would like to help us continue our work, go to our website and make a donation.

Watch Video

Reading Is Fundamenal at Pickle Elementary

2010-10-14T15:04:00.000-05:00

This week was RIF at Pickle Elementary in North Austin. Divine Canines teams were scheduled to participate from 8:00 am - 2:00pm Monday through Thursday. The theme for the week was pets. The librarian wanted the dogs to be a surprise for the kids. So, the handler and dog would hide in the librarian's office as each class came in. She would read them a story about dogs and then tell them she had special guests. That's when the Divine Canines team would come out. The kids would get so excited. A new class would come through every half hour so we saw lots of kids.

I had the morning shifts on Monday from 8:00 - 11:00 and Wednesday from 8:00 - 10:30. I took Sasha on Monday and Phoenix on Wednesday. They both love kids and the attention they get.

I asked the class who had a dog and if they read to their dogs. Some laughed, some said the did and others weren't sure how to respond. I told them that reading to their dog was good practice and a good way to bond with their dog. Many promised to start reading to their dogs starting with their new book. Then we would go to another area where each child was allowed to pet the dogs (if they were so inclined). Very few passed on this opportunity. The kids were then taken to an area to select a book that they could take home and keep.

The librarian said she thought it was a great success and that having the dogs made a big impact.

Sharon Collins, Phoenix and Sasha

Fort Hood Visit

2010-10-13T17:47:00.000-05:00

Every couple of months or so, Divine Canines teams make a trek from Austin to Fort Hood to visit soldiers coping with PTSD. There are usually between six and eight dog/handler teams. We consider it an honor to be invited to interact with the soldiers and be of any help we can. A news team was there for our visit in June 2010. Check out the video link below.

Fort Hood Visit Video

Cunningham Elementary School Visit

2010-10-07T17:03:00.000-05:00

We had a great visit to Cunningham Elementary this morning. We visit with children with autism and special needs children at this site. There is a young boy with autism who last year spent most visits running around the room. At our last visit he slowed down enough to roll a ball at the dogs a couple of times. That was an improvement.

Today's visit truly amazed me (and his teachers). Daisy, a Great Pyrenees who is blind, made the visit with Phoenix and myself. After a while of running around the room, the young boy actually stopped to pet Daisy and hold her leash. Something about Daisy got through to him. You never know what dog will reach what child. Thank you Daisy. I can't wait to see his improvement with your future visits.

Sharon Collins and Phoenix

Welcome

2010-10-07T16:50:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the new blog site for Divine Canines in Austin, Texas. On this site you will find stories from our volunteers sharing their experiences while making visits to one of the many sites we work with. We hope you will Like our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Divine-Canines/121909181195609 to keep up with other activities we are involved with. Check out our website at http://divinecanines.org/ to learn more about what we are about.