Yesterday Paul and I took Drift and Shyner to the nursing home to visit our neighbor and to deliver her Christmas present.

We walked in the door and were mobbed The residents that were hanging out in the common room came out to see the dogs. We spent some time with them and made our way to Alice's room.

While visiting Alice we noticed a LOT of traffic in the hallway outside her room, and people peeking in to see the dogs. We decided to let Paul continue visiting and I would take the dogs on the rounds.

SOOOOO many people wanted to see them and talk. They would talk to me while petting the dogs. One older gentleman in a wheelchair talked to me for a good half hour about his past dogs. The whole time, Shyner rested her head on his left knee, and Drift rested hers on his right. He had both hands busy rubbing their heads and ears

One of the staff members approached me and asked if I would be willing to take the girls into a few rooms to see some residents that could not get out of bed at the moment. Of course I did, and each time we approached a bed, a hand came out from under the blankets. Each time a furry head found the hand without any prompting from me.

Both girls were gentle and quiet. It's like they knew exactly what they were there to do and they did it well. They coaxed smiles and laughs out of everyone and left nobody out. Each of the residents were talking about how they got to pet the "little black one" or the "shepherd."

I found out later that some of the residents haven't had family members visit them in a very long time. That is heartbreaking to me, and I am glad that I was able to bring the girls in and give them some company... if only for a short time.

A lesson from Drift and Shyner -- Don't forget about those that are less fortunate during this time of family and friends. Everyone deserves something to smile about.

--Kel (and Drift and Shyner)

Lovely story Kelly. Thank you.

It is wonderful to be able to brighten up all their lives..even if it is for just a short time. Good dogs.

Great story Kelly! Did you happen to take any pictures? If so, send them to the nursing home for the residents, they love them! Usually the activity director plans a craft day, the residents will make frames for those pictures and proudly display them in their rooms. Take a picture of Drift and Shyner and send them for the community room board, the pictures will spark many conversations.

I have been visiting various nursing homes, Alzheimer/Parkinson facilities for years with two of my dogs, many nursing homes have no issues, and will give you authorization to take pictures.

It sounds like a lot were touched... We played (small orchestra) at the hospital yesterday and today but because we are a group of 6 it has not been possible to visit rooms. Still I am happy we are able to play even in the waiting area to lift up the family's there.

It is a great gift to give...Keep up the great work Drift and Shyner!

Kelly, How wonderful to hear that the "frosty muzzles" of the two legged variety were able to enjoy your sweet dogs! The story of the gentleman talking about all his past dogs was so bittersweet...

What a beautiful story! Thank you for sharing.

Once again Kelly Thank you. You kind of brought home the meaning of Christmas.

 Quote:

Everyone deserves something to smile about

This inspires me to take Eddie to a nursing home.
I am becoming more mobile now and things like that are becoming more feasible for me.

Hey Kelly, your girls sure do brighten the lives of others. What radiant, shining stars they are, joyfully enabling others to beam as well.

Wonderful story.