The Comforting Power of Pets

This article appeared in our 2019 Wings of Hope magazine

James Herb is grateful for the Hope for Pets program. So are his nine cats. Once a month, Hope volunteer Barbara Hartnett delivers two 20-pound bags of food and three 20-pound containers of kitty litter to help James care for his pets.

And while there are nine felines in residence, James’ Schipperke Jackie clearly presides over the home, with bright eyes gleaming and a shiny medallion dangling from his collar to honor St. Francis, the patron saint of animals. “It’s all about the love,” said James as he patted Jackie’s head.

A hip replacement surgery at 76 set off a series of setbacks and deteriorating health. When he was unexpectedly admitted to the hospital after a checkup, James pleaded to be let go so he could return home to care for his animals. “They are great company and comfort to me,” said James.

Now 80, James spends most days at his Lehigh Acres home. Knowing Hope is there for him, and his pets, is also a comfort to James.

 “I can’t believe how much Hope has helped me. Their staff are such good people,” said James. “They’ve been with me since day one helping me through this trip I’m taking.”

Hope’s community partnerships with organizations such as Bayshore Animal Hospital and Gulf Coast Humane Society help people who, like James, want to keep their animals nearby, but need a hand caring for them.

In addition to providing care for animals, Hope for Pets will also rehome pets if necessary.

“We want to help be supportive to people at the end of life, and people’s pets provide comfort to them right until the end,” said Jennifer Galloway, Gulf Coast Humane Society’s executive director. “Hope does an amazing job finding placements for pets,” she said, “We sometimes help them with adoptions, or if they see an animal in need of medical care, we get them taken care of at the clinic.”

Jennifer said GCHS likes to work with organizations that provide much-needed services to the community. “Many of us on staff have had family members who have used Hope Hospice,” said Jennifer, whose father was with Hope before he passed. “What they do for the community at that time in someone’s life is so important. We want to help in any way we can to be supportive, and pets often provide their owners such comfort up until the end.”

Sunbathing Scruffy

 

Update March 27: Margaret and Ted brought Scruffy home yesterday, and her first night in their home was so much better than they could have expected! She slept at the foot of their bed. Margaret and Ted are in love with Scruffy already. Thank you to everyone who helped to spread the word!

Could your family benefit from a new furry friend during these challenging times?

After their mother’s passing, Rita’s daughters would be relieved to find Scruffy a happy new home.

Scruffy is an 8-year-old indoor cat who relishes time with people and spending time sunbathing on the lanai. She doesn’t mind the company of other cats or dogs. Although she is healthy, spayed, and microchipped, Scruffy will likely need updated vaccines and some grooming.

Rita’s daughters have offered to cover these costs for the adoptive family. Contact us for details.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Energetic Marlin

Update March 20: Marlin found a new home with Dennis!
Marlin is a 2 1/2-year-old medium-sized, mixed-breed dog. His energy would be well matched if your household has a member who would like a running companion, or if you have a large outdoor space. Marlin truly enjoys interactive play with people and/or other dogs. His current home includes access to a dog door and dog run. He might be a great addition if your family likes to do agility training!

He is well-behaved in the house. His owner describes him as having a very sweet disposition. Marlin appears to be an intelligent guy who likes to please and is easily trained.

Because of his energy level, Marlin’s family hopes that potential adopters have plenty of space for him to run and family members who can spend time exercising him. All vaccines are up to date with the exception of rabies. The expense of his rabies shot will be fully covered.

Button, Daisy, and Jake

Button, Daisy, and Jake need new homes! Susan would find great comfort in knowing that her three dogs will be placed in caring and loving homes. Although they certainly could be adopted by a single family, they will also do well if placed in three different homes.

Button

Button, a 7-year old female walker beagle mix, is slow to warm up, but loves to play once she gets to know you. She is spayed and microchipped and doesn’t currently need medications for her heart murmur. Button likes extra attention and may nip ankles if she feels neglected.

Daisy

Daisy, a rescue dog, is a 12-year old lab mix with no health or behavioral issues. She is spayed and microchipped. This friendly, laid-back female gets along well with small dogs.

Jake

Jake is a 5-year old neutered mixed breed that was originally rescued in the woods. He has lots of energy and “loves anybody that loves on him.” Jake hasn’t yet interacted with small children, but he’s never shown any signs of aggression and has no health or behavioral issues.

All dogs are housebroken and are a healthy weight for their size. Would you consider opening your heart and home to one, two, or all three of these dogs?

New Love for Lovey

Update Dec 4:
Lovey is now back at the Gulf Coast Humane Society, where she was originally rescued. As of today, Lovey is still available to be matched with a loving new family. Contact the Gulf Coast Humane Society directly for details. We are grateful to their organization for graciously assisting with our pet adoptions! 

Even though, at 11 years old, Lovey is a senior dog, her spirit and good health defy that label. A few months after being adopted from the Humane Society, circumstances changed for Lovey’s family. Walter passed away recently in hospice care and his wife, Dotty, is unable to keep Lovey. Dotty will be moving with her daughter, who is allergic to dogs. Dotty wants to assure that Lovey goes to a new home. Lovey, a mixed breed, is a great companion who loves to be cuddled and loves to play with family members. She is spayed, up to date on vaccinations and in good health. She weighs about 45 pounds. Being an only dog is important as she doesn’t care for interactions with other dogs. If you are a fan of senior dogs, she would make a wonderful companion. Hope can provide startup supplies and support.

Jewelry Sale Benefits Hope’s Pet Program

To benefit Hope’s Pet Program, Hope volunteer Margot Hill is donating half the proceeds from sales of her hand-crafted Bing Gems earrings, necklaces and bracelets available at #1 New York Nails & Spa, owned and operated by Tony Pham at 25987 South Tamiami Trail in Bonita Springs through Thanksgiving.

Bing Gems is named after Hill’s dog Bing, one of the beloved Jack Russell Terriers she brings to visit and warm the hearts of patients and families both at  Joanne’s House in Bonita Springs and in their homes for more than six years.

“It is truly rewarding work,” said Hill, who retired from the Boston Police Department after 30 years of service. Since 2014, Hill has raised more than $1,500 for the pet program through her jewelry sales.

Dutch Featured in Burnt Store Marina Beacon News

Congratulations to Dutch, who was featured in the Burnt Store Marina Beacon for successfully completing his volunteer orientation! We're so lucky to have him as a pet visitor!

Happy Halloween from Joanne's House

Calendar Donation from Hitch and Stacey

Stacey Brill and Hitch stop by the Hope Care Center, where they volunteer each week, with a donation of custom calendars created by the English Bulldog Rescue group. Thanks to both for their ongoing support of Hope!

Miss Kitty Found a New Home!

Miss Kitty went home with Wilma! She is enjoying the love and companionship in her new home, after her previous owner, Calvin, passed away.

Hitch Celebrates a Year of Volunteering