Not all volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland walk on two legs. Some have four and are full of furry hugs and slobbery kisses. While our human volunteers bring smiles to the faces of our guests, those smiles shine a little brighter when our animal therapy partners come to visit. From a Yorkie-poo named Stanley Guido to a miniature horse named Dimples, RMH is privileged to have such amazing animal companions visit and play with children and their families at the House during a time when happiness and levity are needed in their lives.
Once Stanley Guido became certified, Glen and Tracy took him to local nursing homes and hospice at Southwest General. It was during this time that they were introduced to the Ronald McDonald House. Struck with curiosity and wanting to give Stanley Guido a change of scenery, the trio decided to pay the House a visit, and the rest is history. They have since welcomed Rosey, a poodle mix, to the family.
This House…I can’t stop talking about it. To be able to give something back with a 14-and-a-half-pound Yorkie-poo and 12-pound poodle is great. This is what life is all about.
Glen Stout
Tobi, a Labrador retriever, was a guide dog for Max Edelman, a Holocaust survivor who suffered a severe trauma that left him blind in a Nazi concentration camp. Before Max passed away at the age of 91, he ensured that Tobi would have a good home with Sharon Dietrich. Sharon had Tobi certified as a Canine Good Citizen. He also passed the Bright and Beautiful Therapy’s dog test and the University Hospital’s Pet Pal program.
Looking for a way to brighten Tobi’s mood after Max’s passing, Sharon decided to bring him to the Ronald McDonald House to play with children and their families. She and Tobi now come to the House on a regular basis, and Tobi loves being used as a pillow by the littlest guests.When asked what’s been the most gratifying part of her experience bringing Tobi to the House, Sharon says it’s “getting to see that the kids are not thinking about what’s going on with them. It helps to see them laughing. They enjoy Tobi, and that’s what makes me happy.”
Twelve dogs and one miniature horse brighten the days of our guests. Thank you to all of our furry and friendly animal therapy partners.
Do you have a furry friend who is therapy certified? Contact us!
