Pet Therapy Volunteers Bring Comfort and Joy to Hospice Patients

When Bonnie Lee Christensen and her dog Ginger Lee walked into CentraCare - Redwood, almost everyone took a moment to say hello. That reaction is just one reason Bonnie and Ginger enjoy volunteering with the hospice pet therapy program.

"Just to see their reaction and put a smile on their face," said Bonnie. "And hopefully to give some comfort too."

Meet Bonnie Lee & Ginger Lee

Bonnie Lee and Ginger Lee, a 5-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, have been volunteering for about two years. Bonnie is a retired rural mail carrier. Ginger was her retirement present to herself, and Bonnie always intended Ginger to be a pet therapy dog. After seeing her sister in the nursing home where animals were used for therapy and witnessing the difference the animals and their owners made, Bonnie decided she wanted to do the same. She connected with a pet therapy volunteer from Willmar to learn more about the opportunity.

Becoming a Pet Therapy Dog and Volunteer

To become a pet therapy dog and volunteer, Ginger and Bonnie went through testing and observation with CentraCare. The training was one day in Willmar, followed by three observations. Bonnie said the main thing is the dogs' behavior and demeanor. "They're not supposed to jump or be aggressive," she explained.

Ginger and Bonnie took a dog training course through the Redwood Falls Community Education program prior to the CentraCare training.

"It was very helpful to have Ginger go through training before the pet therapy training and observation," Bonnie said.

Patient Visits

Bonnie explained the steps she follows to get Ginger ready for her pet therapy appointments: "I have to clean her before each visit, so she gets a bath in the morning before we go. Usually, I try to have the visits scheduled for the afternoon."

Bonnie and Ginger work hard to fit in as many appointments as they can. They currently see 7 clients. The pair go see patients across the county.

Providing Comfort and Joy

For Bonnie, it is the joy and comfort that her and Ginger's visits bring to both the patients and their families that make volunteering so great.

"It is very rewarding. Especially for patients who miss animals. Sometimes, we bring more comfort to the family then the patient," she said.

And for Ginger, whose favorites are riding motorcycles and food, getting to show some of her tricks for treats and the extra love and affection are all welcome.

CentraCare - Redwood Hospice is currently looking for additional pet therapy dogs and volunteers to continue this popular service. If you and your dog are interested, please contact volunteer coordinator, Sharon Fromm via email sharon.fromm@centracare.com or phone at 507-637-4579.