DOGS make great companions; they get it when it comes to the importance of the human/animal bond – how it makes people happy and the health benefits that come with that relationship.

There is nothing quite like a DOG greeting someone or snuggling up to a lucky human. Pet therapy is a real thing. The concept has been used to foster responsibility with great results. While making a documentary about the subject I had a chance to meet a young autistic girl who according to her parents was listless until they brought home a couple of sibling puppies that were truly special. The puppies, besides being sweet-and-cuddly cocker spaniels needed medication for diabetes. The young lady of nine wanted a pet and was willing to do anything for her wish. It was granted with a caveat; it would be her duty to give the medication daily at the same time each day, provide the pups with a walk and prepare their meals. According to her parents, their young daughter made a 180-degree turnabout, with renewed energy and a zest for life. DOGS have been used to do the same for convicts who have lost any hope or purpose for their lives. Each convict in the program is entrusted with a German Shepherd. The DOGS are trained to assist our military, our border patrol agents, and police/fire departments for rescue operations. DOGS are now being used in some hospitals that allow trained canines to spend time with terminally ill patients, raising their spirits at a time when such a need is so welcomed.

And my dog Sydney(pictured above) has become a mascot for the Community Adult Day Center that cares for older adults seeking socialization or in need of a caregiver during hours when their adult children may be at work or their spouse/caregiver might need time to run the errands of any household, knowing that CADC will provide loving care of their beloved.

The day ELVIS came to sing the music of the KING was in honor of a former CADC client, Chuck Turner, whose family and friends upon his passing wanted to give back something in his memory.

Chuck loved music and the artistry of Presley. It was only fitting thatSydneywould be a part of the festivities that day since Chuck loved petting the Gonczy (pronounced GONSKI) – a Polish Hunting Dog (a hound) almost as much as he loved hearing the music of the KING.

Sydneyworked her charm letting all the older adults take their turn petting her as she gave kisses to those who put their ear next to her muzzle. ELVIS was touched and dedicated to the black beauty, “You Ain’t Nothing But A Hound Dog,” which brought another joy in life – laughter.

It was a great moment, something CADC – an organization made up of people who know how to GO DO GOOD- making every day a great day!

If you’d like to know more about the Community Adult Day Center, volunteer, donate or utilize for a beloved one that needs a bit of help, check out the CADC website: communityadultdaycenter.org. or call 630–968-1068.