Pet Therapy program is What's Right with Tampa Bay
BAYONET POINT, Fla. - Pets bring happiness and companionship to their owners. They can also bring joy and healing, which is why it's "What's Right With Tampa Bay."
Charles Andrews and his pet dog, "Mr. McTrouble," are a welcomed sight for Cindy Pashley, a patient at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point.
The duo comes every Thursday to uplift the spirits of patients in the hospital.
"It was exciting, he's beautiful, nice, and calm. Very friendly," said Pashley.
"People want talk, they want do a lot of things, they see a dog and their whole attitude changes," Andrews said.
They are part of the Pet Therapy Program at the center.
Raymond Jozwik and his Collie, Cotton Girl, also visit the hospital.
"Having Collies, in particular, most of the elderly remember Lassie so it really does warm them up to see a Collie," says Jozwik.
John Barrett has a special bond with the four legged friends. "It makes you feel good that dogs, dogs love people," he said.
That's something that Andrews has seen first hand, too. "I actually seem them cry and thank me," he said.
They're creating lasting memories for patients and their families one visit at a time.