This Is Just Therapy

I was having a rough morning today, so I went to see a therapist. He was very friendly, introduced himself w/ a handshake, and then proceeded to let me talk out my problems to him.

He was also a dog.

Joey is a 4 year-old golden retriever who volunteers here at the CVOTC with his owner, Sharon Hillidge. The pair can usually be spotted outside on Friday afternoons. Known as "The Wonder Dog" to many athletes and staff, Joey and Sharon have been providing some much needed “dog time” to our campus for over 2 ½ years.


First off, how can a dog be a therapist?? I’m so glad you asked. A therapy animal can go into any environment to interact w/ people of any disability or background with the goal to establish a connection, making a person live a happier and healthier life. To receive their license, Sharon and Joey went through 12 hours of training, then a practicum, as well as situational practices, where Joey was put into environments that would test his skills. Sharon said, “They would put him in a room with people who would be screaming, open umbrellas in his face, car horns or loud noises would blare, all to see how he would react.” Joey passed with flying colors.

Second, why does an Olympic Training Center need a dog?? Why does anyone need a pet?? Because they’re fun!! When athletes come out here to train at the OTC, they leave everything behind, including their much beloved furry friends. Joey provides us w/ a community pet, someone to play with. It’s also a proven fact, that playing w/ an animal can reduce stress and your blood pressure. When Sharon and Joey first started volunteering here in 2008, the Olympic Trials were taking place. Athletes were stressing out, trying to beat each other out for a spot on the Olympic team. Joey helped diffuse the tense situation. Then afterwards, some athletes went off to Beijing, while others stayed behind, depressed and frustrated after coming so close to their dream. Joey offered comfort and a loving nuzzle w/ his black, wet nose.

Thirdly, Leiza interacting w/ a dog?? Yes, I am a cat person. After having bad experiences as a child w/ certain Labradors (which I am convinced are descendants of hell hounds), I tend not to like dogs. But for Joey and a select few, I will make an exception. In fact, here are some quick photos of dogs that I love:

Digger. He's been in my uncle's family since I can remember. Great, loving dog. May your tail forever wag.






Bono.

a.k.a. bono-bono-baby-bono. Cutest little fluffy doggy ever.








Pugs. Yup. All of them.








Pal, The Little Rascals

Making a case for all children to have a cool pets.









Clifford. But now I'm not sure about this one because honestly if a three-story red dog came lumbering toward me, I would probably scream bloody murder and run the opposite direction. Plus, he kinda looks like a lab.