Cherina's Web Page

Tails of the Dalmatian

      Cherina's Therapy Dog Project at Achieve

Pet Therapy in Day Habilitation

Written by Anne Marie, LMSW/Social ServicesCoordinator

Cherina, a female therapy Dalmatian canine, comes with her owner, Cheryl, every Thursday afternoon to ACHIEVE’s Day Habilitation Program. Cheryl is very generous in volunteering her time to bring Cherina to ACHIEVE. The individuals in program who come to see Cherina are rewarded by her presence in so many ways. No matter how the individual is feeling, Cherina always puts a smile on his/her face. There is so much social interaction between the individuals and Cherina. They all call out her name for them to pet her and are delighted when she gives them a kiss or shakes her paw for them on command. There is much laughter and exchange of stories about their own pets and pets they know. The individuals love the soft texture of Cherina’s fur and find petting her very relaxing. However, Cherina does have a long thin tail that can get in the way if sitting too close. The individuals will say, “Watch out for her tail! Look out!” When the individuals interact with Cherina, their attention is given to her rather than them focusing on themselves. They speak to her as if she were human. When it is time for Cherina to leave, the individuals wave and say, “Good-bye,” knowing that they will see her again next week!