"Ringo has been volunteering for Pets & Friends since Oct 2017. In addition to special events, our regular visits are to Burnaby Hospital and Emily Carr University.
Our most impactful moment was walking into the Emergency Ward and saw a young man in his 20’s sitting upright alone in a chair looking somewhat down and out. His face lit up when he saw us, so naturally we walked over to say Hello. He petted Ringo in silence for about 3 minutes. He told me he was in Emergency through the night and the medics were giving him different doses of various medicines. None of which made him feel any different. But he said, a few minutes with Ringo and being able to connect with him, he started to feel better immediately and much like himself again. I nearly burst into tears as that was an “Aha” moment for me and the very reason we continue to volunteer.
Ringo is now about 13 and having mobility issues due to his arthritis. We now select events where he can remain stationary and the visitors come to him. We can no longer walk long distances to visit patients in their wards, but the hospital wants us to continue in any way we can if it means sitting in one spot and greeting people in the hallways, they are happy to oblige.
As a footnote - this pup was rescued from a high kill shelter in CA back in 2014 when he was 2. He was surrendered by his owners. Ringo turned out to be the best dog ever! Because I lucked out and he was given a 2nd chance at life, we decided to give back to the community as a pet therapy team. Thank you for giving us this dream volunteer gig!"
- Pet Therapy Volunteer Team Donella & Ringo's Story
