January 15, 2016 (Denver, NC) ─ What is black and white, bug-eyed and leaves smiles in her wake? Why it’s Sadie, a Boston terrier owned by Randy Bower of Troutman. A Therapy Dogs International-certified dog, Sadie visits Wexford House, a DePaul Senior Living Community in Denver, twice a month where she is one of the most popular guests! She is accompanied by her friend Bogie, a Labradoodle owned by Sue Schoenecker.

Pictured here, Wexford House residents Betty Anders and Frances Genta enjoy some cuddle time with Sadie who has been a therapy dog since 2009.

“Residents love the pet therapy visits because it reminds them of the dogs they used to own,” said Activities Director Leslie Spinner. “They all want to pet the dogs, and they love to have their picture taken with them.”

“I was going through a divorce and Sadie was the first dog I ever had,” Bower said. “It was a transitional period in my life and I thought it would be a good way for me to give back.”

Sadie, Bogie and their owners, pictured here, also frequently pay visits to Heath House, a DePaul Senior Living Community in Lincolnton.

“They say when you pet a dog it lowers your stress levels,” said Bower. “You can really see that on the faces of the residents when they are petting Sadie. It’s rewarding in many ways.”

For more information about Wexford House, please contact Administrator Melissa Silverman-Connolly at (704) 489-2633 or visit us on Facebook.