In a world where connection and compassion are more important than ever, Sandra Daniell and Megan Hurt have found a unique way to bring smiles and comfort to those in need. This mother-daughter team has been volunteering with their therapy dogs, Charlotte and Otis for about a year and a half at AdventHealth Littleton and AdventHealth Porter.
Sandra and Megan's journey into pet therapy began with a simple desire to meet people and do something meaningful with their dogs. After moving to a new area, Sandra thought that therapy work would be a great way to integrate into the community. Megan, equally enthusiastic, joined her mother in training and certifying their dogs.
"We get as much out of it as the patients do, because it brings us a lot of joy to see the smiles," said Sandra.
"It's fun to do with my mom. We have a good time, and it has brought us closer in many ways,” said Megan.
One of the unique aspects of their volunteering is the teamwork involved. Sandra and Megan work together to cover more ground, visiting more patient rooms and floors than they could individually. They enjoy discussing their visits afterward, sharing stories about the patients, staff, and their pups.
"We get to talk about how the dogs did and the patients that we met, and the staff. It's just fun," said Megan.
Their therapy dogs, Charlotte and Otis, were initially COVID dogs, untrained and unsocialized due to the pandemic. However, with dedication and hard work, Sandra and Megan transformed them into well-mannered therapy dogs.
"It took us about seven or eight months, but it's been worthwhile," Sandra explained. "If you have the time and like helping other people, it's very rewarding.”
Their visits are not only appreciated by patients but also by the hospital staff.
"The nurses and doctors go crazy when they see the dogs," said Megan. “We love how excited they get!”
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