SPL HEALTH
57 May/June 2020 StPeteLifeMag.com
form of therapy for the elderly and ill for years. “For two decades
I’ve been involved with pet therapy,” says Frohnerath. “It’s known
to improve emotional well-being and a lot more. Stroking a dog
just as much as the patients.”
Being the owner of a pet therapy dog is a labor of love. Varga
and 6-year-old Gunner went through several months of training
with a six-month training for the Animal-Assisted Therapy
with visits to Johns Hopkins, Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater
and a few side visits here and there.
Gunner has become something of a celebrity, with his own
Instagram page and a “baseball card” Varga passes out with his
head shot and name on one side and a listing that includes his
Birthday (April 27), Favorite Snack (peanut butter) and Talents
“This is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done,” says
Varga as she begins her rounds. She is a volunteer, not paid for
her time or training costs. “This was my dream for him to work
with kids, he is such a sweetheart. He loves it as much as the kids
do.” As they walk to the elevator Gunner is a hit with visitors and
bottles of hand sanitizer, a strict rule for use both before and after
a petting session.
PHOTOS/JOHNS HOPKINS ALL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
Pet Volunteers Needed
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital has a need for
escorts to assist the dog handlers during pet therapy
visits. To learn more about the pet therapy program
and how to become an escort go to
www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/Get-Involved/Volunteer
Halloween brings a special parade of dogs in costume.
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