Well, after my "sabbatical" I went and took Benny to see our senior friends last Saturday Night. This was an unscheduled visit. I could have cried. They were so very happy to see him again (not me so much). We had a "Benny" party in the lobby.

What a wonderful time my Benny had. Of course! Everyone was petting him, and talking to him. Wow, he was being treated like royalty. A true friend come home.

It was just great to see this joy. We all talked and laughed and joked. Everyone talked about their summer, how they were doing, what was going on in their own world. I felt better then I had for a long time. My new resolve is to go back to my weekly visits. I do not want to miss out on these opportunities anymore.

So, my advice, as always is: If you have the inclination to visit with seniors, if you have a dog that loves to be petted, a dog that loves the human touch, then please go to your local Dog Therapy Group and find out how you can join this wonderful work. It is not difficult to get your dog certified.

The three most well known organizations that offer certification; Delta Society, Therapy Dog International and Therapy Dogs, Inc. There are other therapy organizations and you may find an organization in your area via the internet under dog therapy, pet therapy or animal assisted therapy.