Shelley and her stylin' therapy dog Morgan
 

I have grown up with dogs all my life. My parents loved cocker spaniels, so we had quite a variety over the years. There was Sammy, a sweet little guy and Tasha a black cocker; the most intuitive dog you would ever meet. She always knew when you needed a moment with her. Just to be touched by her was something special. She was one of the many reasons I decided to began my quest into pet therapy.

I am currently owned by Morgan, a 3 year old Bichon Frise. Yes, I said owned, anyone with a Bichon will know exactly what I am talking about. We graduated from Luckdragon’s Pet Therapy Group [training] program in 2007 and have since been making regular visits to the Manchester Veterans hospital in Manchester.

Morgan loves his trips to the VA, sniffing the elevator, prancing down the hallway, greeting the patients, getting the occasional treat, snuggles and perhaps if he’s lucky, a belly rub.

Morgan weighs 10 lbs and his coat is actually hair, not fur, which makes him great for people with allergies to dogs. He has less dander than most dogs and his lovely white coat requires daily brushing.

Morgan’s dog training includes basic obedience, advanced obedience, agility, Canine Good Citizen [certification], and flyball.

When Morgan is not volunteering at the VA he can be found as a weekly regular at a doggie daycare in New Hampshire.

When not volunteering at the VAMC I can be found horse back riding, hiking with Morgan, and my most recent adventure, sky diving! I am currently working in Human Resources at a manufacturing company.