Our Pets
We love animals and our 4 legged volunteers bring many smiles. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, family members and staff who share their critters with us. Our family members, local shelter and other organizations regularly visit. If you would like to have your pet be part of our program please review our guidelines and submit your request on-line or call 206-632-7400.
Olive
Olive the Shihpoo (Shih Tzu/Poodle mix) was born, rescued, and adopted in 2010. She got her start as a therapy dog in 2011 as a member of the Atlanta Pet Rescue “alumni” team. In 2013 she and her humans moved out west and she began visits to Columbia Lutheran. Olive enjoys the cooler weather and dog-friendly culture in Seattle, but she hasn’t forgotten her roots: This prissy girl expects to be treated like the proper Southern lady she is! She loves to visit her Columbia friends for snuggles and treats.
Abbie and Lizzie
These retired Greyhounds were once elite athletes on the race track but now help staff our Accounting Office along with their person Dorothy. Truth be told, Dorothy does most of the work while they take the credit. They can be found lounging in their office Mon-Fri between 9-5:30 and rally whenever visitors stop by. Remarkably mellow and affectionate, they truly enjoy their “working” retirement.
Homer
Homer is a labradoodle and has been a registered therapy dog since 2016. She got her name as a pup when her family recognized her sweet disposition and knew she was a “home run.” Homer has been bringing good cheer to people at Bailey-Boushay and well as local Adult Family Homes and Assisted Living facilities. And despite working as much as she does, she still finds time to play piano!
Meg, Retired
Meg, a Chocolate Lab, retired to her Hood Canal beach house in 2018 after 7 years at Columbia. She was certified through Therapy Dogs International and visited on alternate Wednesdays, right after lunch. An extremely mellow nature helped her model relaxation for residents when she laid on the floor with her head on the nearest foot. Thank you Meg for all the joy you brought us over the years!
In Memoriam
Jubie
Jubie (short for Jubilation) was a Kerry Blue Terrier. She led a very busy and accomplished life! A registered therapy dog with Therapy Dogs International, she was a regular visitor at Columbia for almost 10 years. Best known to our Residents and Staff as a member of the FIDO Drill Team, she also achieved Championship in confirmation and received all of the Rally titles and two obedience titles. We miss her greatly.
Holly
Holly began her pet therapy career at Columbia in 2010, visiting everyone with a big canine smile. She seemed to understand when people needed extra attention and would gently put her head on the side of a bed or on a resident’s lap to have her ears scratched. She had a way of connecting with people who needed companionship and when we walked away they would always be smiling. She volunteered for four years until it was too hard for her to walk around the facility and she retired at age 15.
Guidelines
The Staff and Residents of Columbia Lutheran Home welcome the presence of pets in our home. You are encouraged to bring family pets for the enjoyment of your loved one as well as for the benefit of other Residents.
For the safety of all and to comply with state regulations we would like to request the following:
- Please provide us with a copy of veterinary records that include a record of Rabies and Distemper immunizations. We update these records annually.
- Pets must be leashed at all times, clean and of suitable temperament.
- To avoid accidents and maintain a clean environment, please curb your pet prior to entering the building.
- Respect the wishes of any Resident who may not desire to have pets near them.
- Be with your pet at all times and manage their behavior to avoid injury to more fragile Residents (handshakes, etc).
We have regular pet visitors and appreciate the warmth and joy they bring into our lives. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us be completing our contact form. Or phone us at 632-7400.
