Pheobie R.I.P.
In August 2003 Phoebe and three other dogs graduated as Hospice South Auckland’s first “pets as therapy” dogs.
Trained by Sue Philcox our dogs passed with flying colours and gained their certificates to begin their roll as regular visitors to Day Stay and the In Patient Unit. Wearing their smart yellow scarves (Phoebe had a special smaller one made) visits to Totara Lodge became a regular treat. Patients warmed to the soft fluffy Bichon Frise and recalled tales of their own pets, triggering good feelings all around.
At Day Stay Phoebe quietly went around each chair to have a pat or cuddle or nurse and then settled down under the table to keep an eye on things. Phoebe hated being groomed, a necessary procedure before her visits. In later years this caused Phoebe much distress so her visits had to be curtailed. Phoebe loved her afternoon walks through the Botanic Gardens rain, hail or shine and enjoyed meeting her other doggie mates until in spite of excellent vet care medication and lots of treats at the age of fifteen Phoebe ended her Hospice ministry and is now buried in the garden near the children’s playground.
Sybil a 3 year Bichon is now being trained to take over Phoebe’s pleasurable duties at Hospice.
Judith Waters
Volunteer (Pheobie’s Mum)
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