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
