Caldwell Hospice Therapy Dog Receives Award

LENOIR—Caldwell Hospice therapy dog Galen was recognized by Therapy Dog International for the Remarkable Volunteer Achievement of 250 documented visits.

Therapy Dogs International is a volunteer organization dedicated to regulating, testing and registration of therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers for the purpose of visiting nursing homes, hospitals, other institutions and wherever else therapy dogs are needed.

Galen, Pam Pinttenin’s American Eskimo Husky, has served Caldwell Hospice patients since 2016. Galen received training and certification after being a shelter dog for two years.

Pet therapy in the hospice setting uses the natural bond between people and animals to provide comfort, peace, and soothing companionship to patients facing the end of life. Studies have shown that the act of petting an animal can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure and heart rate, and ease depression.

“We certainly see the value of pet therapy with our patients,” says volunteer coordinator Cyndi Akins. “Patients just light up when our pet visitors come into the room!”

Pet visitors are just one example of the many ways Caldwell Hospice goes above and beyond the basic services that hospices are required to offer. In addition to Galen, two other certified therapy dogs visit patients and families at Caldwell Hospice’s Stevens Patient Care Unit in Lenoir and Forlines Patient Care Unit in Hudson.

Kwacha, Walter and Jacquelyn Ford’s Terrier mix, has served since 2017.

River, Shirley Kiziah’s Collie, is the newest addition to our team in 2019.

“Caldwell Hospice is so appreciative of the valuable service each of these special canine team members provide for our patients,” continues Akins. “Congratulations to Galen and Pam Pinttenin! Thank you to all of the therapy dogs and volunteers who serve our patients.”