Book Review: A Dose of Tia

Mom and I read a wonderful book. It is called "A Dose of Tia," by Dina Mauro. Dina is led through a beautiful journey by her beloved Tia as they embrace the life God called them to. It's hard to decide whether their therapy visits into hospitals and nursing homes impact the lives of others more than the heart of Tia's human mom. Clearly, the impact is great. You can NOT read "A Dose of Tia" without receiving a deep desire to embrace the blessings of life and seek every opportunity to touch the lives of others in your path.

To get your own copy of "A Dose of Tia" click this link: A Dose of Tia

Tia can also be found on face book. Just enter "A Dose of Tia" in the search bar.

Please let mom and I know what you think after reading Tia's story and journey with her mom, Dina.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka and Mom/Andrea Bowling Perdue

Furry Visits

Last night, I left Nanuq at home with Macy and Trouble while I visited the patients at Central State Psychiatric Hospital. Nanuq's leg is better, but still not completely well. Trouble and Macy took very good care of him while we were away.

The patients were happy to see us. There were a couple of new patients who needed to receive furry love and attention. It is always great to visit with those who need a special touch. Sometimes they are afraid, but as soon as I roll over with my feet in the air they smile and begin to pet me. I suppose I do look a bit silly upside down!

Thanks for continuing to pray for our ministry. Thank you for continuing to come and read about all GOD is doing in our furry lives. Indeed, GOD has a perfect plan for us....not just for our humans!

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Back To Business

Last night, Nanuq and I visited the patients at CSH, Petersburg, Virginia. We were happy to see them and they seemed happy that we came. There were a couple of new patients. One older lady stands out in my mind, this morning. She was a bit unsteady and shaky. At first she was afraid, but mom told her the reason I was howling (speaking malamute to her) was because I wanted her to pet me. As soon as she leaned down, I rolled over and she began to rub me. She had a great big smile on her face.

It was great to get back to business. I am thankful we could visit. I hope all of you are doing well. Ms. Ina left a comment on my last article saying, "We are having a blizzard." I must admit, I am a bit jealous. It was 70 degrees here, yesterday and Ms. Ina gets to play in the snow. I am sending Ms. Ina a big furry cyber hug and I hope she thinks of me each time GOD gives her more winter wonderland.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Beach and Blog Radio

Mom speaking, today. Please check out how God is spreading the news about my furry call into ministry.

Woofs and Wags,
Sitka







Greetings, hugs, love, and prayers from The Perdue Zoo. We are enjoying a week at God's beautiful Frisco Beach, Hatteras Island, North Carolina. The first 2 days have been unbelievably wonderful and we look forward to the beauty of each day through out the week.

Tomorrow, Monday, February 22, 2010, I will be interviewed at She Speaks To Inspire Blog Radio, by Laurie Zieber (talk show host). She is doing a series on God's call to ministry. I will be discussing our call into Dog Therapy. If you would like to listen, it will air at 5 pm Central Time/6pm Eastern Time. The link is: www.blogtalkradio.com/rlrn

I thank you ahead of time for your prayers!

Enjoying HIS presence,

Andrea

Responsibilities

Tonight, Dad was not feeling well. I stayed home to take care of him and Mom took Nanuq to Dog Therapy at Central State Hospital. Nanuq had a great evening giving furry hugs and getting belly rubs. I was happy to keep Dad company while Mom was away. I missed Dog Therapy, but sometimes Mom gives me other important responsibilities. Tonight, it was my job to make sure Dad was happy and okay. Mom said, both our jobs are equally important.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Sitka's Cyber Travels

Today, I am a guest blogger at The Blest Atheist.
Ms. Beth is traveling and asked if I would tell her followers a little about dog therapy. I hope you will join me in greeting her followers with furry hugs and love.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Mountain Therapy

Yesterday, Mom and Dad took us to the mountains. We left home around 11:00 AM and made our way towards our destination. Our first stop was in Charlottesville, Virginia. We all needed to potty.

As Dad pulled into the parking lot, Mom noticed a lady who looked angry or upset. We parked and unloaded. Dad went inside to potty and Mom took us to a nearby grassy spot. As she walked us, the Lady who had appeared upset or angry started our way. The lady asked, "Are your dogs friendly?" Mom said, "Yes, they are therapy dogs and love everyone. You may pet them if you would like."

The lady hugged and snuggled with both Nanuq and I. She then looked up at Mom and said, "They sure are therapy. I was in a bad mood and I feel much better now." She thanked Mom and went inside a local business.

After gassing up the vehicle and eating a little lunch, we journeyed on toward the mountains. Dad stopped in Crozet, Virginia for apples. Again, Mom helped us out of the SUV and we walked around while Dad carefully chose his apples.

Many of the people visiting the orchard needed a furry hug, too. We spent some time with each person who came over to us and then we began our journey again. All along the way, Mom took pictures.

Eventually, we arrived at Big Meadows on Skyland Drive, Virginia. We hiked up onto the rock, in the picture above, all along the way stopping so people could pet us. Mom and Dad spend a lot of time answering questions about us while, we spend a lot of time giving furry hugs and love.

Dog therapy and dog therapy education does not end in hospitals and nursing homes. Our ministry is goes far and wide. It was a beautiful day in the mountains of Virginia.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Dog Therapy

Wednesday night I returned to dog therapy at Central State Psychiatric Hospital, Petersburg, Virginia. I was overwhelmed with excitement to see the patients. As I entered the building, I began to talk to them in my native Malamute language (howling). I am always amazed. They seem to understand my greetings.

Nanuq and I were taken to the special room on the second floor where we have dog therapy. There were a large number of patients waiting to see us.

One elderly lady seemed to need me most. Nanuq took over the casual petting job and I laid down on a large mat.The lady began to pet me. As she relaxed, I rolled my large furry body over onto my back. She laid down beside me and began rubbing my belly. She and I spent about 30 minutes together.

I am thankful GOD allowed me to go back to work. I was not able to stay the full 1 1/2 hours. I left about 15 minutes before Nanuq. My knees and hits were beginning to ache after laying on the floor. Mom and Dad now realize they will be able to take me, but I will need to leave early.

I thank each of you for continuing to support my ministry and pray for me. My parents, Nanuq and I are overwhelmed by your support. We feel your prayers as GOD places us in those special places.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Kreativ Blogger Award

Kreativ Blogger Award







I would like to thank Joyce at Shady Hollow for the Kreativ Blogger Award. I appreciate it very much. The 'rules' for the award are listed below:

1. Thank the person who gave this to you.
2. Copy the logo and place it on your blog.
3. Link the person who nominated you.
4. Name 7 things about yourself that no one would really know.
5. Nominate seven 'Kreativ Bloggers'
6. Post links to the seven blogs you nominate
7. Leave a comment on each of the blogs letting them know you nominated them.



Seven things about me (Sitka) that aren't known to most people are:

1: My micro chip sets of the alarm when Mom and Dad take me into Barnes and Nobles.
2: During my four years of life, I have received 3 knee surgeries.
3: Even though Mom and Dad have taught me it is not polite to chase cats, I still enjoy chasing my kitty sister and kitty brother. I would never hurt them, but I can not resist the temptation when they tease me.
4: My picture hangs on the wall in the vet office for all to see.
5: I love to travel with my Mom and Dad.
6: My best therapy dog friend is Grace, a 4 pound Papillon. She likes to sit on my nose and kiss me.
7: I love to swim!

Seven Blogs I pass this award to:

Mary @ Godly Graffitti
Ina @ Ina in Alaska
Edie @ Rich Gifts
Rosel @ Off the Beaten Trek
Patty @ Attic Clutter
Mary @ Piles Of Smiles
#7 ANYONE WHO PRAYS FOR ME!

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Calender

I confused everyone with the picture I posted about the calender. My calender picture has NOT been posted on this blog. It will be a surprise. All Mom and Dad will allow me to tell you is I was photographed at Pocahontas State Park, in Chesterfield, Virginia. I stood in front of the pond full of lily pads for one of the shots (my furry hint). I am sorry for the confusion.

I will let you know how to order them in July of 2010, when they become available. You will then be prepared for 2011.

It has been a busy week in "The Perdue Zoo." I hope all of you are doing well.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Tonight's Visit

Tonight, Mom and Dad spent the evening with Nanuq at Central State Hospital. I wanted to go with them, but Mom felt it wise for me to stay home another week. I so miss helping humans feel better. Mom reminds me I do not have to leave home to do my job. She tells me I am special and not all dogs get to tell their stories about dog therapy. What would we canines do without Mom's to encourage us? Thank you Mom and thank you to all of my followers.

After visiting tonight, Nanuq could not wait to share with me. Nanuq's evening was full of adventure. Many of the patients were a little confused tonight. One thought she was lassie and had raised her own pups. Another patient thought Nanuq was her grandmother. One gentleman thought he was a K-9 because he, too had hair on his arms.

For the last 30 minutes of Nanuq's visit, he spent his time with a young man. The young man seemed to need his attention. He needed someone to listen to him. Mom suggested the young man tell Nanuq to heel so they could walk around in the large room together. Nanuq politely followed the young man's commands and stayed with him at every turn. It was a wonderful surprise to this young man for Nanuq to listen and obey. Both Nanuq and the young man were filled with joy and both faces wore radiant smiles.

Dog therapy is never the same. The needs are great. Our visits encourage the souls of many humans in a profound way. Mom gets lots of questions about dog therapy and often she has a difficult time explaining the value of our jobs. In reality it is not explainable. It is truly a "God Thing." You have to witness it to realize the eternal value. GOD often uses us in ways beyond comprehension.

Please pray for our human patient friends at Central State Hospital as well as the staff and Doctors. There are many hurting people and there are many special souls who work and serve in this facility because they want to make a difference. Nanuq, Trouble, and I are privileged to be a part of their team.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Rest

I hope each of you are doing well. Our furry lives have been quite busy lately. Mom and Dad are in the midst of wedding plans for our human sister. Mom has also been sick. She tries to keep going despite her inability to breath.

My furry brothers and sister have decided today is her day to rest. We will allow her to use her laptop, but she can not run all over creation chasing down forgotten wedding stuff. Dad has agreed and he and my human brother will work on Mom's list, today. Our job is to make sure Mom rests. Today, we are Mom's therapy.

We are quite happy. This means we will stay curled up in and around the bed with Mom. When we are alone with Mom, our house is quiet and peaceful. Mom loves the quiet and we know this will be good for her spirit as well as her body.

We send furry hugs and pray each of you have a peaceful Monday.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Nanuq Visits

Once again, I sent Nanuq to visit our friends at Central State Psychiatric Hospital. Upon arriving and settling into our special room, Dad unleashed Nanuq and let him visit with each patient. He strolled from one to another. There were many patients who decided to visit with Nanuq, but there is always one who is special.

At the beginning of the evening, Dad noticed a young man who was especially excited that Nanuq was there. They spent time together and then Nanuq visited with others. At the end of the evening this young man came back to Nanuq needing more furry love. Dad said, "It was as if he did not want Nanuq to leave."

Each visit is special. We do not always know or see the difference in the lives of the patients. We seek to bring happiness and a little bit of normalcy into otherwise sad lives.

I would not want to spend my furry life locked in a hospital without my animal friends. Mom and Dad keep us (my brothers, sister, and I) on a schedule, but we are still allowed the normal freedoms life in America affords us.

I am thankful we are allowed to visit our friends who are sick. They have illnesses that prevent them from living a normal life. Some are able to be rehabilitated and join us in society, but some live permanently in the Psychiatric Hospital. As I continue to share our experiences with patients, I ask you to pray for those who are not as fortunate as you and I.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Nanuq's New Game

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

Update's

It's a new day! My leg still aches. Dad has gone to pick up more pain medications for me. Arthritis is NO fun, at all! I feel for all of you who struggle with this disease. I am sending Nanuq to visit our friends at Central State Hospital, tonight. I know he will bring hope and happiness to many.

I have an update on Jim Moss. Mary called Mom last night. After a battery of tests, the Doctors were baffled. All tests were normal, yet clearly Jim had two Cardiac episodes in the presence of doctors and staff.

Both Mary and Jim believe the prayers on his behalf brought about healing. I share in their belief. I praise GOD with Jim and Mary! Thank you, dear friends for storming the heavens with prayer.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Just Dropping In

I am dropping in today to let each of you know how much I appreciate your prayers. I am currently taking my antibiotics and pain medication. I am up and moving around. Mom and Dad are watching me carefully, because I am not fully using my right rear leg.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Celebrating Freedom

We celebrated our nations freedom calmly and quietly, this year. Nanuq is very afraid of thunderstorms and loud noises. Mom decided it would be best to keep us home.

Dad took my human brothers, wife, girlfriend, and little people for pizza and fireworks. They enjoyed the festivities of the day and returned home to snuggle with us before bed.

We enjoy the freedom of doing what we choose daily, yet many only think of it on holidays (Independence Day, Memorial Day, etc.). Today, I would like to thank all those who serve our country and who have sacrificed to keep my furry body safe.

Those serving our country are near and dear to my family's heart. My human brother is currently a Marine. My Dad lost his father when he was a tiny boy in WWII. Many of our friends have love ones serving in different sectors of the Armed Forces, as well.

You may think, "what does this have to do with dog therapy and this blog?"

Well, I furry ole Sitka will tell you. I am able to go into hospitals, nursing homes, and freely walk the streets of many towns and communities, because there are many protecting me. I live in a country where my parents can praise GOD and give him credit for all HE has done in and through our therapy dog ministry.

When children ask my mom, "why is he so big?" Her answer is very simple, "God made him this way." Simple answers to questions of adults and children, yet if we lived in another country we could not share them openly.

Today, I would like to celebrate the freedom we all enjoy daily. May GOD bless each person serving to protect us and the families they represent!

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Just Checking In

Just wanted to let everyone know how I am doing. My knees and hips still ache. Mom and Dad are treating me with Glucosomine/Chondrotin supplements, rest, and controlled exercise.

Yesterday, we celebrated my human niece's Birthday. Our home was full of people and I received some extra attention. The little children enjoyed yummy cake and mom gave me some extra treats in with my dinner.

Today, mom has not felt well. I have stayed close. I am blessed with the gift of being very sensitive. I know when mom and others need me. Mom says, "Sitka is the best therapy for me."

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

Sitka Has A Boo Boo

On Sunday, Mom found a boo boo on my hip. It is called a hot spot. Mom knew what to do. She sent my human brother, Wil for the clippers. She shaved and cleaned the spot. She then applied neosporin and desitan ointment to the broken skin. The neosporin has antibiotics in it and the desitan keeps the skin cool and makes my boo boo feel better. I really like to chew on these spots, but Mom and Dad are quick to tell me, "NO BITE" and I stop.

It seems these days are a bit challenging. I have been raised in a loving home and given strict training. I have received quality medical care and the very best of everything, yet my doggie health has been a challenge for my parents.

I miss therapy in the hospital when I am unable to go, but I am thankful I have two furry brothers who fill in the gap. Nanuq will be going to Our Lady Of Hope (Nursing Care Facility) on Friday morning to visit the residents. My parents and I have a passion for hurting people. My youngest human brother, Wil also has a heart for dog therapy. He often helps Mom and Dad with us.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka

An Outdoor Therapy Visit

Thursday night, Dad took Nanuq to Central State Psychiatric Hospital for Dog Therapy. Mom and I stayed home. I am still experiencing pain in my knees and hips when I lay on the hard floors in hospitals or other places.

On this visit, the staff decided to take the patients into a fenced courtyard. Dad was able to allow Nanuq to freely visit with patients. He unleashed Nanuq and he played with the patients.

Both Nanuq and Dad shared with Mom and I when they returned home. The outdoor visit was enjoyed by both Nanuq and the patients.

A change of scenery is good for both humans and furry children. God uses all things to work in our lives. Nanuq's visit reminds us to think outside the box when helping others. I am thankful the staff was able to give the patients and Nanuq the ability to fellowship in a different environment.

Woofs and Wags,

Sitka