ARF to the Rescue!

Back in 1991, a frightened cat ran across the field at a Oakland A's/NY Yankees game. After rescuing the cat, ball team manager, Tony LaRussa and his wife founded ARF, the Animal Rescue Foundation in Walnut Creek.

ARF has many programs for families and children and offers low cost adoptions, spay and neuter services and more. One of the many fantastic programs that ARF sponsors is the Pet Hug Pack. Trained dogs and their handlers visit hospitals, schools, rest homes, libraries helping people feel better. Studies show that people who come in contact with these dogs have lower blood pressure, less stress and feel calmer.

Today we had the honor of having one such of these therapy dogs come to visit us. We met Daisy, a 4 year old Leonberger, who is a therapy dog in the our area. She and her handler, Sue, participate in hospital visiting, hospice visits and to a special needs preschool where there are autistic children. Sue told us that some of the children who have never spoken before talk to Daisy.

We learned about how to approach a dog that we have never met before, what Daisy likes best (a belly rub) and how to take care of animals in our life. It was a wonderful experience! Enjoy the photos!

Hugs to all,
Miss Sue