Oliver’s Travels

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2017

WE ARE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE HAVE A NEW MEMBER OF THE HANCOCK HEALTH FAMILY, OLIVER! OLIVER IS OUR NEWEST THERAPY DOG THAT HAS BEEN BRED, LICENSED AND TRAINED THROUGH THE INDIANA CANINE ASSISTANCE NETWORK (ICAN) AND HAS BEEN TRAINED TO WORK WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE EMOTIONAL NEEDS. WE ARE GOING TO BE FOLLOWING OLIVER, ALONG WITH HIS HANDLER, ROB NEWCOMBER, AND CAPTURE HOW HE IMPACTS OUR PATIENTS AND STAFF THROUGH HIS EYES.

Dear Journal,

Today was an exciting day. As soon as I walked in the hospital I could feel that people were stressed and needed my help. We went to the contraption that takes you upstairs, so you don’t have to walk up the stairs. It’s difficult for me to walk up stairs that don’t have backs on them or without Rob’s help because my feet slip. I like this new, strange invention.

Anyways, when got to the second floor I was greeted by Carol, who tells us who needs me for the day. I was told that I was a good boy all day, and OH do I believe it. Every time that I hug a person or do something good I get a treat from Rob. I like Rob. He’s the treat keeper.

We walked down the hallway and went into Reflections. As soon as I walked in, everyone’s eyes lit up. I’m not sure why people get happy when their around me, but they just do. I can usually sense who needs to be around me the most and I go comfort them. I had such a fun time in the Reflections area. I gave people lots attention and showed them that I can give hugs. I can’t wait to go back and see my new friends.

Rob and I made our way down to the Hospice Unit and were immediately greeted by some of the Housekeeping staff. They are so nice and love to pet me. I stopped by a few of the rooms and met Jay. Jay was so friendly, I could’ve stayed there all day. Jay has been in the hospital a few days and said that I remind him of his puppy. He says that he’s a dog person and loves hanging out with me. I mean, doesn’t everyone?

I didn’t get very far into the hallway before people stopped and tell me how cute I am. Everyone tells me that, so it must be true. No one jokes about that.

We made our way down to Hospice and met the nicest lady. Her name was Jane. Her daughter was also there and told us that I made their day! I wanted to get up there with her and take a nap, but since I’m not allowed to I took a little break on the floor beside her. I could tell that she was calm so I instantly got calm myself. I really think that I feed off of people’s energies or something like that. She also said that she recognized me from the newspaper! I must be a celebrity around here since everyone knows my name. I haven’t even told anyone my name yet.

After visiting with Jane for a while, we went to the Andis Department and met the greatest people in the waiting room! They were waiting for a baby to be born and were very anxious! I heard that they were dog people, so I knew that I would fit right in. I really think that I helped them feel more relaxed about what was going on, and gave them lots of love and attention. I also hear that I have a puppy face and soft fur. I think that’s a compliment.

We then made our way back to Carol’s office to tell her about the excitement that we had today in the hospital! I love meeting new people. We all talked for a while and I was exhausted from all of the socialization that I had to do today. It’s ruff being as cute and friendly as I am. I may have dosed off a little bit, but I’m always on alert just in case Rob tells me a command (mostly so I can get a treat).

Overall it was a great day, and I met lots of new people. Keep up with my adventures and see what I’m up to around the hospital! Hopefully I’ll get to meet even more people next time that I visit. I sure hope so.

Oliver