Comfort Caring Canines COVID-19 Updates

Comfort Caring Canines prioritizes the health and safety of our volunteer handlers, their dogs, and the communities we serve. As of March 11, 2020, all therapy dog visits are suspended until further notice. Based on the available information about the COVID-19 virus, we feel this is the best decision for all involved. 

The Comfort Caring Canines Board of Directors will continue to monitor the news and updates provided by credible organizations including the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention and the American Veterinary Medical Association. 

We will share updates as appropriate and inform our members and facilities when visits will be allowed to resume. 

Below we have provided a summary of available information about COVID-19 and will continue to provide updates as information becomes available. 

What is coronavirus?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.”

COVID-19 was discovered after an outbreak that began in Wuhan, China in December of 2019. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) have the first recorded case of COVID-19 in the US showing up on January 21, 2020.

Because this is a newly discovered virus, the current understanding of how it spreads is based on knowledge of other coronaviruses. It is believed to be spread from person to person via respiratory droplets that are formed when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the eyes, mouth, or nose of another person or be inhaled into the lungs.

People are believed to be the most at risk of contracting COVID-19 when exposed to those who are actively expressing symptoms or someone who has recently traveled to a known affected area. Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the flu, which include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and vomiting.

Precautions to take to prevent coronaviruses

• Avoid contact with people who are sick

• Don’t travel or go to work when you’re sick

• Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap

• Use hand sanitizers containing 60%-90% alcohol to kill bacteria

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

• Use a disinfectant on objects that many people frequently use or touch like doorknobs, keyboards, and telephones

• If you have symptoms consistent with Coronavirus or COVID-19 specifically contact your doctor

• If you are sick, you can wear a face mask. The CDC doesn't require that the general public wear face masks.

Follow the CDC, WHO and credible medical sources for updates on the outbreak as more information is available, we will update this blog post as we get more (credible) information. 

Can my dog get COVID-19?

Per the American Association of Veterinary Medicine’s Website: “According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), no animals in the United States have been identified with the virus, and there is no evidence that dogs or other pets can spread COVID-19.

The CDC recommends that people who are sick with COVID-19 restrict contact with pets and other animals, just like you would restrict your contact with other people. When possible, a member of the household other than the individual who is ill should care for any animals in the household. Those infected with COVID-19 should avoid contact with animals, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. Those who must care for a pet, or who will be around animals while sick, should wear an appropriate facemask and wash hands thoroughly before and after interacting with those animals.”

Further Information 

To stay up to date on information available about COVID-19:

World Health Organization

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

American Veterinary Medical Association

Pennsylvania Department of Health 

New Jersey Department of Health

Delaware Department of Health

Therapy Dog Visits: How long is too long for your dog?

As a new therapy dog handler, or even if you’ve been volunteering with your dog for months or years, you may have wondered how much your dog should be working. The answer to this question can vary widely from dog to dog. We’ve broken down some things to consider and what to look for so you know when your dog has had enough. 

Before you go

Check-in with your dog. They should be excited about the visit. If your pup is having an off day, consider skipping or postponing the visit. This is volunteer work for both you and your dog and you want to make sure it is a fun, positive experience for your dog. 

On your visit

You want to make sure you’re checking in with your dog often. While you might be a team, your job is to ensure that your dog is comfortable, happy and feeling safe at all times. Visiting can be overwhelming for your dog. Think about visiting a crowded mall at the holidays. While you may love to shop, waiting in long lines, maneuvering through crowds and all the extra smells of holiday treats can quickly become overstimulating. Even though you like to shop, there could come a point where this is overstimulating. Therapy dog visits can be like this for your pup! 

While you’re visiting, you will need to carefully monitor how people engage with your dog. This is especially true when working with younger children or those with cognitive disabilities. If you see someone petting your dog too hard or in a spot they don’t really like - you can speak up. Even if your dog is tolerating it, they may not be enjoying it and we don’t want to put your dog in an uncomfortable position. You can still be friendly and positive. Say something like “My dog really likes gentle pets on his head and back like this.” Demonstrate for the person and then allow them to try. If this doesn’t work you can end the interaction. Try saying something like “We’ve really enjoyed visiting with you and we need to give other people an opportunity to visit with us.”

Watch for subtle signs your pup has had enough 

While every dog is different and you’ll get to know your dog’s signals after just a few visits, here are some common subtle signals that your pup has had enough: 

• Licking and yawning

• Restlessness

• Not wanting to be pet or avoiding people

• Barking or whining

• Looking for the door 

If you notice any of these behaviors in your dog you should think about ending the visit as soon as possible. You can try giving your dog a break to go outside first. Your pup may need a bathroom break, some fresh air or a change of scenery. Go with your gut though, if you think your pup is barking because they’re having fun, it’s likely okay to stay a little longer. If you’re not sure, better to err on the side of overly cautious and end the visit. You don’t want to wait until your pup has to give you a less subtle sign that it’s time to leave! It is good to leave your pup wanting more and excited about another visit then have them feel overworked, overtired and dread visiting because they know they’re in for a long workday. 

Serious signs your dog needs to end a visit 

Either you missed a few subtle cues or your pup didn’t give them, but for whatever reason, your dog is now saying “Get me out of here!” Something in the environment may have changed (more people or loud music for example) or your pup may just be getting tired. This might look like: 

• Continuous barking

• Growling

• Getting agitated or mouthy 

• Trying to play too rough

• Lack of interest in food rewards

• Doesn’t engage when their name is called 

If you’re seeing any of these in your dog, you need to end the visit immediately. Let whoever is in charge of the visit or event know you need to be finished volunteering for the day. You can politely excuse yourself by saying “Thanks for having us but my dog is ready to head out, we’re looking forward to visiting again soon.”

How often and how long can my dog work?

Now that you’ve got an understanding of what to look for when your dog is working, you may still be wondering how often they can work and how long of a shift they can take. 

The answer to this question can vary from dog to dog. Here are a few things you need to consider when deciding how often and how long to work your pup: 

1. How old is your dog? 

2. How long have they been participating in therapy visits?

3. Where are your visits? How stressful are they for your dog? 

4. Does my dog spend a lot of time in the car getting to and from visits?

5. How many people is your dog interacting with? How does your dog like to interact with people? 

For dogs who are younger or new to therapy work, you will most likely want to start slowly. You can let facilities know in advance that your dog is new to therapy work and be proactive about your dog’s needs. For the first few visits plan to stay no more than one hour. Be flexible though, if your dog is showing any signs of fear, stress, overwhelm or exhaustion - feel free to end the visit and reward your dog for a job well done! You could stop for a special treat on the way home or make sure you have a favorite on standby for after the visit. 

Some older or more experienced dogs can work longer stretches. This will vary widely between dogs. Even if your dog is experienced, loves to work and/or is older, it is important to know when maybe enough is enough. If your dog isn’t giving you signals, still continue to check in with your pup and offer breaks. 

Big to Small, CCC Dogs Visit All

Big to Small CCC Dogs Visit All

Member Highlights

January 2020 - Alicia Harantschuk, President

Hank and his human, Vance, joined CCC after another member, Lanie Duff and her CCC dog Watson, got to talking about the organization and what they could do to help others. Here is what Vance has to say:

What is your most memorable visit?: “I think one of my most memorable visits with Hank was one I recall when I was not motivated.  It was a visit I just wasn't really in the mood for early on, and I almost cancelled.  It turned out being one of the most rewarding visits I have had there, just on the overall interactions and reactions that Hank was getting.  He is great at bringing life into the patients that typically are asleep or just not very coherent.  The nurses and caregivers there always explain the effect he has and give examples of a resident never smiling or speaking, but when Hank visits them there is a small amount of time when they come to life.  I really enjoy seeing that part of things. Anytime I may not be in the mood or tired, I just think back to that visit and always think that this next visit may end up being the most rewarding one yet, so keep showing up and let Hank work his magic.”

Where are you visiting and any advice?: Currently, I am visiting at Presby’s Inspired Life at Spring Mill where they have created a little TV like ad that runs in the common areas. It is a nice way for people to know we are coming.  I am also starting to look at the CHOP program and get enrolled.  We are one year in and I am planning on attempting to do more opportunities and events this year.  I would say something that I originally discovered when Hank and I started our visits, is to go in without any expectations.  Just show up, feel out the room or person you are visiting, and things will just have a way of organically developing and doing what is needed.  Overall, it's a lot of fun and I think Hank enjoys bringing smiles anywhere he can.  CCC is truly a great organization and I am very happy to have stumbled into this group and be a part of the Therapy Dog world.

FUN FACTS:

Hank’s favorite treat is CAULIFLOWER!

Hank’s most used trick is WAVE for saying hello and goodbye.

Fhinneas and his human, Paul, joined CCC after seeing how “Fhinn” reacted to their neighbor’s special needs child.  I will never forget the day they came to test with us.  My back was to the door and all I saw was everyone taking out their phones of pictures.  I turned around and all I could say was, “My goodness, what kind of a car do you drive?”

What is your most memorable visit? “All my visits are very memorable and watching people's faces when they see him for the first time.  I don’t think he's big because I'm with him all the time. I never realized the impact the dogs have until we started visiting. Someone can be sitting in a common area or in their bed very quiet. Then you ask them ‘do you want a visit?’ They go from 0 to 100 real quick and engage with non-stop talking.”

Where are you visiting?: “We visit hospitals, college destress events, high schools and participate in library reading programs.  We are also part of the Moss Paws for Progress Team. 

FUN FACTS:

Fhinn’s favorite treat is FROZEN BEEF BONES!

Hank’s most used trick is “THEIR SIZE” which means he lays down so children and other dogs are not intimidated by him. 

We’d like to thank Vance and Paul for all the work they have put into preparing their dogs for pet therapy and the time they give to make visits.  We recognize just how difficult volunteering can be with today’s challenging schedules. 

If you would like to learn more about CCC, Vance/Hank or Paul/Fhinneas, please contact us at info@comfortcaringcanines.com.

Happy Visiting!

Alicia Harantschuk

President, Comfort Caring Canines

Therapy Dogs Spread the Love at MossRehab

If one dog is good, then lots of dogs must be better, right?

Patients at MossRehab are happily testing out that theory thanks to a new partnership with Comfort Caring Canines. Volunteers from the nonprofit organization have been bringing their therapy dogs to the campus in Elkins Park since December.

MossRehab already had its resident canine, Pender, a Labrador and golden retriever mix who was trained as a facility dog through Canine Companions for Independence. His training is used to encourage and motivate patients in therapy sessions, help them work on their goals to improve function, and provide some extra fun! But Pender can’t be everywhere.

So Liz Decina, a MossRehab recreation therapist who is Pender’s partner, got excited in December when she met a therapy-dog team from Comfort Caring Canines, a local nonprofit organization. “We are always looking for cost-effective ways to better serve more of our patients’ needs in a variety of fun and emotionally fulfilling ways,” she says.

Decina and Alicia Harantschuk, president of Comfort Caring Canines, developed the Moss Paws for Progress program at MossRehab, which allows the trained owner-dog teams to visit patients on the rehab floors at hours that work with their schedules.

They often visit on evenings and weekends. “I would say most weeks we get at least one visit,” Decina says. Decina and Harantschuk are eager to get additional teams up and running soon.

On a recent day, Alyssa Schafer and Maddy, her 8-year-old, 25-pound mixed-breed rescue dog, took a tour of the third-floor rehab unit, earning smiles everywhere. They would stay just a few minutes in each room where a patient wanted a visit, but it was enough.

“Want to give me a kiss?” asked Helen Kane. “I don’t get many kisses.” Maddy obliged.

Others just wanted to accept the invitation Maddy had displayed on her vest: “Therapy Dog. Pet Me.”

Unlike Pender and other facility dogs, who are expertly trained to do specific tasks, the therapy dogs who visit MossRehab have a different job. They are there to cuddle, comfort and help patients keep a positive outlook. Their purpose is love alone.

Schafer, who is also a dog trainer, says she and Maddy became certified with Comfort Caring Canines a year ago. She was excited when the Moss Paws for Progress program started close to her home.

According to Harantschuk, Comfort Caring Canines dogs must be at least a year old and not aggressive. They must complete a standard obedience course or have a Canine Good Citizen title from the American Kennel Club. They also need a current license and vaccinations.

Handlers must be at least 18 and provide criminal and child abuse background checks. They also go through a Comfort Caring Canines orientation.

“For Pender and other facility dogs, the process is much more rigorous,” Decina says.

But the patients visiting with Maddy recently weren’t looking at her credentials. They were happy just to hang out with her.

For more information or to get involved with Moss Paws for Progress, contact Liz Decina, decinali@einstein.edu.

How dogs help kids learn to read at Philly’s Free Library

All of the small children sitting on the rainbow carpet at Queen Memorial Library in Point Breeze are transfixed. Despite the usual temperament of three-year-olds, this group neither whines nor complains.

They pay close attention to librarian Elizabeth Gardiner’s effusive reading of Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See to the tune of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. What’s keeping the small bodies in check? The attentiveness likely has to do with the chocolate-colored gentle giant sprawled across the rug in front of them.

Konig, a seven-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog, is one of a handful of pups who volunteer their time to providing “judgment-free” zones at select Free Library locations. Each month, he patiently listens to over-enthused narration and pants along to silly sing-a-longs with 15 to 20 daycare-aged children.

The idea isn’t novel — but it’s getting more and more popular.

Full Article

Quakertown Vet Clinic Pet Fair

The Quakertown Pet Fair is happening again on June 2.  Be sure to stop by and say HI!.  See below from last year's event. 

At Quakertown Veterinary Clinic, they strive to provide the best care for your animal.      

We provide both routine and 24-hour emergency care services to the tri-county area surrounding Quakertown, Pennsylvania. It is our mission to provide compassionate quality care for our patients and the owners who love them.

Founded in the early 1900's, Quakertown Veterinary Clinic has expanded to include emergency and general care for companion animals, exotics, equine and farm animals, as well as boarding and grooming, laboratory and other services. 

We are proud to be an accredited member of the American Animal Hospital Association, meeting its high standards for excellence in veterinary care. Only 14% of the small animal veterinary facilities in North America can claim this distinction!

A DOG’S JOB: THE INCREDIBLE BENEFITS OF PET THERAPY

Published by Impakter Magazine 

For full article, please visit http://impakter.com/a-dogs-job-the-incredible-benefits-of-pet-therapy/

Authored by: Alicia Harantschuk, Breigh Godleski and Providenza Loera Rocco

Comfort Caring Canines holds First Evaluation in Philadelphia !

Comfort Caring Canines (CCC) has long wanted to offer evaluations in Philadelphia.  On May 14, 2016 the wait was over as 13 individuals came out to test with their dogs.  CCC is proud to report that all passed and are now therapy dog teams with the organization.

A very special thank you to Philly Pet Hotel for allowing us to use their wonderful facility.  Click here to learn more about Philly Pet Hotel.

If you would like to learn more about pet therapy and how to have your dog evaluated, please check out the CCC website at www.comfortcaringcanines.org or email them at ccc@comfortcaringcanines.org

NBC 10 - Clear the Shelters Featuring Comfort Caring Canines

Comfort Caring Canines was highlighted during the 2015 clear the shelter event in Philadelphia.  It was an opportunity to show rescue dogs can be therapy dogs too.