Rand Aid’s Ron Smith Care Centre residents and staff fell in love with the JOY Dogs that came to visit the care centre with their owner and handler Sue Green on 17 February.
Jade, Orion and Yola (JOY) are Old English Sheepdogs. Yola (9) comes from Hungary, Orion (4) comes from Russia and Jade (1½) was born in Bronkhorstspruit.
The JOY dogs visit to RSCC was the first time they have been action after a two-year break due to Covid-19.
“Their visit was a real Valentine’s treat for our residents, warming the hearts of all who had the privilege to meet them,” says Debbie Christen, Rand Aid’s manager of recreational programmes.
“The dogs seemed to enjoy the spacious Woodlands’ garden and recreation area and really lived up to their name, spreading love and JOY to all. Residents and staff alike were delighted to spend time with them, touch them, take photos with them and watch them do some tricks,” she adds.
On show were some garments made from the dogs’ hair, which is collected by Sue, spun on a spinning wheel and then knitted.
The dogs are the brand ambassadors for Dulux paint and are celebrities in their own right. Orion is also featured in current TV and social media adverts. The visit was Jade’s first time working as a JOY Dog and she thoroughly enjoyed it.
“The therapy dogs also visited and interacted with residents who live in RSCC’s dementia wing and, on their way out of the complex, were stopped and admired by residents at the coffee shop,” says Debbie.
Sue is hoping the visit will prompt the community to start booking the JOY Dogs again, after such a long Covid-19 break. They love meeting people, posing for photos and generally being admired and showing off.
JOY Dogs is always looking for sponsors to help with the expenses of travelling to suitable venues, such as elderly care centres and schools.
For more information, visit www.joydogs.co.za, contact Sue at 082 455 8634 or email sue@joydogs.co.za.
RSCC resident Olive Jew with Orion. RSCC resident Ellen Quinn looking on.
