2019 D.O.G. Team Recipients

Nancy Brunswick and Rina

Nancy and Rina volunteer at two assisted living centers with memory care units for four years.  They also have been visiting Hearts for Hospice for about three years.

Comments from Hearts for Hospice and Home Health: “Nancy and Rina have devoted many hours in visiting our patients in their homes and nursing facilities, bringing many smiles and joy to many.  Not only have they visited the patients but have also enabled many to benefit from the pet therapy, encouraging positive interaction and decreasing the tendency for withdrawal and isolation. Caregivers and families of patients have also benefited just as much from the companionship of Rina.  Rina has brightened many people by being present, not shying away with those who are ill, and giving much love to all she meets.”

Tonya Murray and Benjamin

Tonya and Benjamin give back to their community by visiting the cancer center and the training center for the disabled, both of which Tonya has personal experience with. They also visit a high school classroom with a social worker.

Comments from the Program Manager at Kankakee County Training Center: “I would like to take a moment to express how much we enjoy Tonya and her dog, Benjamin Buttons here at KCTC. The clients are always so excited to see them. For some, it reminds them of a pet they had growing up. For others, it is a fantastic sensory experience. Tonya and Benjamin are very kind and patient with everyone. We are lucky to have such a great therapy dog team come to see us. We look forward to each and every visit.