By Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland
The part of Tuesday’s Northumberland County council Community Health Committee meeting Chair Olena Hankivsky declared the highlight was the visit by Ivy, the personable little golden retriever acquired by the paramedic service and beautifully trained by Ontario Dog Trainer Karen Laws.
Ivy was just a puppy when she came to the Community Paramedicine program Sept. 15. And while a trained dog typically won’t start participating in Community Paramedicine visits until the age of 1.5 to two years, Ivy – who turned one July 15 – has already begun due to her extraordinary abilities.
Brown’s presentation on Ivy’s schedule to date included glowing reports from clients and CP workers.
“Much more talkative than any other visit I have ever seen him,” one worker reported of a client’s visit.
“Ivy appeared to brighten up his mood and engagement for the visit.”
Another recounted, “These clients are always very happy kind people, but it was next level today. The client met me outside as I pulled up in anticipation of Ivy. When I was leaving the client walked out with us, and he rolled around on the ground with her – reminiscing about around on the ground with her – reminiscing about his old dog. It brought tears to my eyes – THIS IS WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT.”
There you have it, Brown said – increased engagement and anticipation.
Clients relished the companionship and friendliness, commenting on how affectionate yet well-behaved Ivy is.
Ivy has also been to visit at Northumberland Hills Hospital, where her escort is frequently stopped on the way to patient rooms so someone can give Ivy a hug. She participated in Paramedic Week celebrations and accompanied some paramedics on a visit to donate blood – as a result of which she was asked to attend other blood-donor clinics.
Even Northumberland County staff have requested visits, where she them through such personal crises as funerals, lightening spirits during budget preparations.
“I think she has earned her dog treats,” Brown declared.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
