Brandi & Linda Breuer 

Volunteer at: Seniors’ facilities

"I’ve been both visiting and volunteering at seniors’ facilities for many years. Brandi is my three-year-old Standard Poodle, who just became an official St. John’s therapy dog! We are both excited for her to join me and help spread her love to everyone she meets. Bonus: She loves all the attention!"

 Rook, Banks,
Karen & Scott O’Brien 

Volunteer at: Hospitals, Mount Royal University, Centennial High School, Girl Guides

"Rook has been volunteering for five years and loves to bring joy, comfort, and healing to patients and staff. We feel very fortunate and humbled to be able to share our dog’s love with others who so much appreciate a little bit of dog love during their stressful day. Banks is an up-and-comer in the therapy dog world and hopes to soon earn his certification so he too can hear ‘you just made my day!’"

 Durito & Bonnie Hoath 

Volunteer at: Cancer care, ICU, surgical units

"Durito has happily been volunteering his time as a therapy dog for the past 10 years. The last seven years have been with St. John’s Ambulance (SJA). He enjoys bringing happiness and smiles to the faces of staff, patients, and patient’s family and friends alike. At the end of a shift, it is his hope that he has made a positive impact in someone’s day."

 Fred & Jaime Nielsen 

Volunteer at: Hospital

"After watching how great Fred was with children, I was inspired to look into volunteering with him. He is a sweet soul who just wants everyone to be happy. He has been bringing smiles and comfort to hospital staff and patients for five months now, and we look forward to continuing for many years to come!"

This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!