PJ, Gulliver and Joan

Shih Tzus are like potato chips - you can't have just one. Princess PJ Fu Fu and Sir Gulliver Travels are 2 of the 4 Shih Tzus that my husband Steve and I own. They are wonderful companion animals. 

We started in Paws with Patience after I saw an ad in the paper for volunteers. I thought it would be a wonderful way to share all the love and enjoyment our dogs give to us. Honestly, my first experience going to visit a nursing home was not very positive. It was quite depressing. We tried a few more visits and found it could be a very rewarding experience. Many times residents ask you to come into their rooms to visit. Some people are reluctant to say hello and pet the dogs and then to your surprise you find you've spent 10 or 15 minutes with someone you don't even know, walking down memory lane. At times their memories are scattered and slow in coming, but you kind of help them along and their smiles are priceless. 

Being part of the Paws with Patience group has been very enjoyable. We have made many new friends, both people and dogs. Families are always included in special activities. I think I've learned to be more patient and understanding and certainly more grateful for what we have. I also think PJ and Gulliver realize they are making a very positive contribution to people's lives.