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COLUSA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
“He’s wonderful,” said Alaine Mills, CRMC Activities Director. “Gus has been our therapy dog for 4 years and has put a smile on the faces of all he encounters. Patients and the staff love him.” Gus is just one of the two CRMC volunteer canines certified by Therapy Dogs International and The Delta Society to provide “pet therapy”. Gus is a very large, majestic dog with a characteristic black mask. According to the American Kennel Club, The Leonberger has a lively nature, is affectionate and just loves everyone. Gus and Chlo, the second CRMC therapy dog are an excellent example of the breed. The four-legged canine volunteers stop by the hospital 1 to 2 times a week and drop in on patients in need of comfort and companionship. Gus and Pixie Baber his owner, have received the Leonberger Therapy Award for devoting countless hours participating in pet therapy programs. The Leonberger Club of America is particularly proud of this award as it exemplifies that which is the best in the breed, their ability to touch lives, heal hearts and make the world a better place simply be being there. To date Gus has made more than 200 visits to local patients and senior citizens. “The value of therapy dogs has been demonstrated time and time again at the hospital,” Pixie Baber stated. “The dogs have a way of knowing what patients and their families need. Sometimes they are very still and sometimes there is a lot of tail wagging.”
Gus’s birthday was celebrated with a
cake and
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gifts
of dog food, dog treats, pet bedding and toys. All of which Gus has
graciously agreed to donate to the Friends of Colusa County Animal
Shelter (FOCCAS). The public is invited to make a donation to
FOCCAS in honor of Gus. Please send your donations to FOCCAS at 929
Bridge Street, Colusa.