Nanuq with one of the staff members. We are not allowed to use pictures with the patients because of privacy.
Nanuq with "all" the balls!
A couple of weeks ago, I sent Nanuq to Central State Psychiatric hospital. During his visit the patients were taken to an area outside. This area is fenced in and set up for putt-putt. Dad took my leash off and allowed Nanuq to visit freely with the patients.
Quickly, Nanuq changed to rules to the game of putt-put. They now include retrieve. Each time the patients hit the little plastic ball, Nanuq would run and get it. Thankfully, the staff and patients thought this was an interesting game and happily joined Nanuq.
Sometimes, all it takes to brighten someone's day is being silly or changing things from the norm. Nanuq is gentle and loving. He approaches life's circumstances with ease. I am thankful Nanuq has been able to step into the gap in my absence. He loves visiting the patients and I know he brightens their week.
Woofs and Wags,
Sitka
13 comments:
You won't believe this Sitka but they even use the Wii games to challenge the psych patients in the jail and help them overcome the mental illnesses they are faced with. But I think your or Nanuq's presence is way better than those games because there is more interaction involved and your friendship illicit smiles, acceptance,love, etc...What a fun time with Nanuq!
We all need friends, because when one falls the other can help him up. Gald that Nanuq is helping Sitka up...or out as the case may be.
Love how you share this insight with all of us. Sometimes we just need to change our perspective of what is normal and try something unique and fun!
Love and Hugs ~ Kat
It takes a very special doggie to help very special people. Good for you big boy!
That was fun, Sitka!! Nanuq had a great idea... made me smile too and I am not even fenced in!! xoxo
That Nanuq is a silly dog but sounds like lots of fun. I'm so glad you have a stand-in so you can recuperate Sitka.
My Tobi likes to change the rules of fetch to keep away... from me. LOL.
TY Andrea, we are good with your new registering. Whew! TTFN ~Marydon
What a blessed ministry this is! I love reading about the interaction of these special dogs and how they befriend the residents of this hospital.
(P.S. Changing the rules does add some challenge and smiles!!)
~ linda
Lovely blog!
Have a nice day
Hugs Gunilla in Singapore
Loved it !
Jolliiieess:-)
Beautiful.
Thanks Andrea, lovely to know the posts make such a difference.
Enjoy the weekend.
Silly Nanuq! Otto would probably do the same thing. He likes to see how many balls or toys he can get into his mouth at once!
Hope you're feeling better Sitka!
Belly Rubs,
Leslie
Very talented! Cute photos.
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