St. Andrew’s PET PALS Ministry

by Ann Wickham

St. Andrew’s Friendship Ministry is looking for a few good dogs who "never met a person they didn’t like" and whose owner would like to share that love with those unable to have pets of their own.

My dog, Joy, a registered Delta Society Pet Partner is such a dog! For the last six months, Joy and I have been sharing her unconditional love with members of St. Andrew’s who are living in health care facilities, in pet-restricted residences, and in private homes.

Joy, the "Therapy Dog," visits to say "Hello" and delights people with her bag of tricks which, in addition to rolling over, includes a pretty convincing prayer! Although I know she prays for a treat, I think the Lord must forgive this wonderful creation of His...and she always gets her treat!

Besides developing in her a gentle and loving temperament, Joy’s training has produced an obedient, predictable, and dependable dog. In addition, Joy and I are also trained as a team and are tested by the Delta Society every two years to maintain our Pet Partner Certification and Delta’s liability coverage. Both of these are requirements to become a St. Andrew’s Pet Pal.

Although Joy and I visit primarily church members, she has enabled us both to make many new friends. Smiles, conversation, and caresses for Joy greet us everywhere we go!

If you think that you may have a canine "recruit" for this program and would enjoy serving the Lord as a Pet Pal in St. Andrew’s Friendship Ministry, please contact Terry in the office at 297-7201. Sharing His Love with JOY!

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