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Caring Canines was organized by me, Debbie Smith of Belpre, Ohio.
I am proud of our growing group of caring individuals who volunteer their time to bring smiles to the faces
of young and old. Together we have visited nursing homes, safetytowns, hospice, schools, handicapped
classes, 4-H and the handicapped as well as to teach about dogs during summer reading camps.
We are ready, willing and able to tailor programs using our dogs to meet a variety of special needs.
Who are we? For several years, Janet Mercer and I have formed the core of a group of therapy dogs.
First with her Aussie, Jam and then with her Giant Schnauzer, Bubba, Janet and myself with my miniature
poodle, Oreo, have entertained at local nursing homes. My Oreo plays the piano, plays basketball and
is our small clown. Jam jumped rope and picked up pennies off from the floor. Bubba is a retriever at heart
as he brings Janet hammers or pillows or his dinner bowl. Bubba is our big clown. He is guaranteed to bring
smiles as he sits on his stool and when he talks back. With the increased interest in folks wanting to participate
with their dogs and the increase in calls for our programs, Caring Canines email list and website was formed
to coordinate our calendars and to let folks know more about us.
We have a variety of dog breeds, tricks and personalities. If you want to see spots our Dalmatian
members include Sharon Gilmore's Deaf Dalmatian, Dice along with MM and John Buchwald with their
checker playing, little red riding hood role playing, Dalmatians, Cera and Tasha. If you want big dogs, we have
JoAnna and her Belgian Sheepdog, Jedi, or Janet and her Giant Schnauzer, Bubba, or Judith Schaad
and her Standard Poodle, Maya. Want little furry dogs? Then we have Sharon Rooks and Bette
Francisco with their Shelties or Kathy Biedenbach and her cute little Pomeranian, Rascal. Tracy and Jessica
Waite's English Cockers will cuddle up with folks. Want retrieving fools? Then the Canary Border Collies
are for you. Nancy Jenkins and her Schnauzer, Peppie, will clown around for you. Whether dressed in bandanas,
basketball shorts or bow ties or carrying pillows, our group is guaranteed to bring a smile.
What is Therapy Dogs Incorporated? Janet and I are certified by Therapy Dogs Incorporated to test dogs for
therapy work. Dogs must be under control and friendly. Dogs should not be spooky in different situations
with kids or with folks in beds or wheelchairs. Being a clown helps but is not required.
To learn more about Therapy Dogs Incorporated
Click Here
During the last couple of years the interest in our therapy dog work has increased and I am proud
of our active members!
Kathy Biedenbach
John and MM Buchwald
Sandy and John Canary
Sue Christman
Bette Francisco
Sharon Gilmore
Heather Jenkins
Nancy Jenkins
Janet Mercer
Sharon Rooks
JoAnna Smith
Debbie Smith
Judith Schaad
Jessica Waite
Tracy Waite
And gone but not forgotten
Robert Arnold and his dog Shane
Dedicated member and friend
For more group pictures of the members and some of
the activities we do at the Nursing Homes and Schools.
Links and Webrings
If you live in the Marietta, OH - Parkersburg, WV area and would be interested in
being a member of the Caring Canines please send an email to me..Debbie Smith. We are always
happy to welcome new members to the group.
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