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The clipping this text was read from
The clipping this text was read from

66

It is a scientific

fact that petting

animals, and

interaction,

lowers blood

pressure and has

a calming effect.

Sally Petty

Therapy Dogs

them out. They need to have that socializing ahead of time,” she says.

Some people may not be ready to become members either. “Many of the people we see don’t have any friends or family,” says Petty. “It takes commitment. If you can’t be there, they still expect you to be.”

Though it’s up to the volunteer when, how often and where they wish to help, Petty suggests visiting at least once a month.

Petty has always been a dog lover. She became involved with Therapy Dogs, Inc.., nine years ago while she was a member of a local kennel club.

Therapy Dogs, Inc., the parent company, was founded in 1990. After hearing a speech given by Barbara Garies of Therapy Dogs, Inc., Petty was hooked. She is now bringing this effective group to Rappahannock County.

Petty has four golden retrievers, two mixed breeds, and one Australian shepherd puppy. Three of her golden retrievers are Therapy Dogs Maggie, 10, Maggie’s daughter Jasmine, 8, and Jasmine’s daughter, Spice, 5.

Petty and her dogs visit the Autumn Care Nursing Home in Madison on a regular basis. She often makes her vis-* its with her friend Kim Nelson

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