HEAVENLY CANINES

This section is reserved for those Canine Therapists who were active with KINDLY CANINES, but have been promoted to play in higher pastures.

THE GOLD BOX
The Real Story of “Heavenly Canines”

The Gold Box was an idea that was developed when our “furry” first” KINDLY CANINES’ Canine Therapist died. This sudden and “furry” unexpected loss was when a fairly young dog, new to the group, didn’t wake up one morning. Hearing the horrible news and not knowing what we could do or what would be an appropriate way to pay respects to JESSIE’S Mom or to memorialize JESSIE – we came up with the idea of collecting donations for our local shelter, The Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter. We placed a collection box at our “Home base” facility. There, a very “crafty” and talented young man/resident by the name of Randy (who is a double amputee and who later moved out of the area) had been working with us on a variety of projects. Randy decided to paint our box gold and he decorated the lid with the title “Heavenly Canines”. So, when a dog dies, as will happen, we alert the handlers and place the “gold box” at the facility along with a framed KINDLY CANINES ‘ logo and along with a picture or description of our honored Canine Therapist. This gesture continues to grow as it affords the Handlers as well as residents and family members an opportunity to reflect on the loss of their “furry” friend and make donation to CVAS in memory of another canine who is waiting at Rainbow Bridge . . .



The Story of the
RAINBOW BRIDGE
 

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....  Author unknown...

And now, our heavenly canines...no longer with us but never gone from our hearts...

SAMMI
Canine Therapist

SAMMI Heater was one of the two original KINDLY CANINES. SAMMI, a Golden Retriever, moved to the Chambersburg area in June, 2003 with her mom, Marti Heater and her family sister, Callie (an English Setter). SAMMI became a therapy dog early in 2003 and is referenced in the History section of this website. Having already had three cancer surgeries before moving at the age of 11, the decision had been made that SAMMI would enjoy the rest her life without any further invasive measures. Careful diet and good care enabled SAMMI to “work” for an additional three years and right up until the week before she died. A very friendly and motherly dog, SAMMI simply assumed the role of Alpha Dog in the KINDLY CANINES group caring for all. She “pawnounced” her role at every gathering - to make sure once that everyone understood she was the elder and to be respected. SAMMI worked all the programs including READS, but her Visitation and Hospice “patients” really connected with her as her age, in human years, made her older than many of her “patients”. So, when residents, families and students continue to ask about SAMMI, and this alone is a reminder of how dogs can “leave pawprints on our heart”. . .

****************************************************************************************

SAMMY
Canine Therapist

Sambow Ocker, a Cocker Spaniel, joined KINDLY CANINES in January 2004
As a senior canine of eleven years, beginning any career, is clearly to be admired. SAMMI’s therapy career included our Visitation, Hospice and READS programs. SAMMI was adored by everyone whose heart she touched.

****************************************************************************************
 

CHARLENE
Canine Therapist

CHARLENE Cook, a White Standard Poodle, joined KINDLY CANINES in October 2003

****************************************************************************************

GWEN-DIXIE
Canine Therapist

Gwen-Dixie came from the West Shore Humane Society of Harrisburg, on February 3, 2005. She had been at the shelter for sixty days or more. She was approximately five years old and all of her hair had been clipped. Thus fooling everyone, because she really looks like Winn-Dixie when she has a full coat. A trainer identified her breed as a Picardy Shepherd, which she definitely looks like. Picardy Shepherd's are from France...Gwen probably came to the USA by a military person that was unable to keep her. She'll never tell. Gwen-Dixie is gentle-natured, mellow, and well disciplined. She is smarter than her handler knows. I am blessed to be her owner/handler.

Carole Taylor (Gwen's mom)

****************************************************************************************