Tom Landon & Poppy: Pet Therapy Volunteers
April 22, 2024
“A common thread with any patient in a hospital is the absence of their beloved pets. When Poppy shows up, that unconditional love is rekindled on the spot.”
“In the winter of 2018, Bassett Healthcare Network offered a pet therapy training class. My dog, Poppy, and I were accepted and began eight weeks of obedience training. We also worked to become familiar with the hospital environment.
Poppy passed her final test easily. We then joined Therapy Dogs International to begin our journey as a pet therapy team. I thank God every day for the opportunity Poppy and I have to bring joy and happiness to all the people we meet in our visits.
Tom Landon & Poppy
We began making one visit per week to both A.O. Fox Hospital and Bassett Medical Center. My wife underwent both chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer in 2019 and 2020, and Poppy and I joined her in the clinic for each session. Poppy loves everyone and she has become quite popular with patients, residents, nurses, and doctors. We have expanded our outreach over the last few years to include A.O. Fox Nursing Home, Oneonta Specialty Services, The Plains at Parish Homestead, the Stram Center, Helios Care, Oxford Veterans’ Home, Hospice of Chenango County, and Chenango Memorial Hospital. The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to take a break, but I was among the first volunteers to receive the two vaccinations that got us back on the job in the spring of 2021.
I have countless stories of Poppy and I experiencing the healing presence of a pet in healthcare facilities. A common thread with any patient in a hospital is the absence of their beloved pets. When Poppy shows up, that unconditional love is rekindled on the spot. Smiles, laughter, photos on phones, and even some tears are often part of each encounter. Poppy can just as easily transform the day for nurses, technicians, doctors, and other caregivers – I have witnessed it so many times. Some of the most touching moments with critically ill patients happen when I lift Poppy up to the bedside with someone who is unable to move. The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) has become one of our favorite places to visit for this very reason. Those patients really need Poppy’s love. The nurses and all staff sincerely appreciate our visits, too."
"Therapy dogs have become a cherished part of my life. I love bringing joy and happiness to people in times of stress and worry. A simple thing like a cute puppy has amazing healing powers. I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community in this way – it’s a dream come true.”
