Therapy dog thrives through hospice program

Hasli, an 8-year-old yellow Labrador retriever, has learned his share of adaptability through exceptional situations as a therapy dog.

His owner, Eloise Barry of Sisters, went through hospice training so she could utilize his lovable disposition for people that request therapy dogs through Hospice of Redmond. Barry renews his certification every two years through Therapy Dogs International.

He has been a therapeutic aid for elderly residents in skilled nursing facilities and has helped the healing process of bereaved children at Sisters' Camp Sunrise.

Hasli started out as a therapy dog over six years ago visiting Saylor Ennis each week. Ennis passed away two years ago shortly after his 100th birthday.

"He used to tell me he wouldn't know what to do without his good friend Hasli," Barry recalled. "They were so fond of each other."

Therapy dogs have the uncanny ability to help calm and soothe agitated individuals while lifting the spirits of those who are sad and lonely. They provide a medium for physical touch and display affection for those who have lived isolated lives. Therapy dog volunteers and their canines have contributed significantly over the years in bringing warmth and joy to residents of nursing homes.

Barry began taking Hasli to Redmond Health Care, a skilled nursing home, five years ago. They visit residents individually in their rooms and sometimes in a group setting.

"The residents love to pet him and some hug him, they cheer up when they see him coming," Barry said.

Hasli, with his natural desire to please, also visits residents at Clare Bridge in Bend which provides Alzheimer's and dementia care for seniors.

"Our visits are so much fun, the residents love to talk to him," said Barry. "Even the residents that have advanced dementia that sometimes don't respond seem to light up when he comes close by."

Camp Sunrise is a special place for children age 7-14 that have experienced the recent death of a loved one. The camp is open each June to 40 children who reside in Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook counties and is free of charge. The camp is held at the United Methodist Church camp on Suttle Lake, sponsored by the joint effort of hospice programs.

Barry and Hasli have been involved in this powerfully effective weekend each summer for several years.

"We stay there the whole weekend," said Barry. "Hasli loves the children and they enjoy him, they seem to have a special bond together."

Hasli still has a couple more endeavors up his furry sleeve, but Camp Sunrise will remain his priority each year.

If any folks in need would like to arrange a visit with Hasli you can do so through Hospice of Redmond;

their website is www.redmondhospice.org.