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The Practitioner and the Parrot
Birds of a feather not only flock together; but in the case of Eric Tangalos, MD, CMD, and Sam B. the parrot, they also make rounds together. Sam B. and Dr. Tangalos "worked" together at Bethany Nursing Home about 15 years ago. "He would sit on my shoulder and let the wind blow in his face with outstretched wings as we moved along," said Dr. Tangalos. He added, "He had a penchant to pull out pens from my pocket, so patients thought he was assisting me." Sam also had quite a set of pipes on him. As Dr. Tangalos noted, "Even our deaf patients could 'hear' the vibrations from his squawk."
About the Caring Canines Calendar
Pets--including dogs--have been visiting nursing facilities and other health care settings for many years. Over time, these visits have made such a difference in the lives of patients that an actual field of study—animal-assisted therapy—has evolved. Research studies have documented the many benefits of this for elders and others.
Caring Canine Cover Dog Speaks Out
The AMDA Foundation sat down recently with Penny, the cover dog for the 2012 Caring Canines calendar. Penny visits nine facilities in her Minnesota community, including Cedarview Care Center and a Ronald McDonald House for sick children. She also goes to elementary schools where children sharpen their literacy skills by reading stories to her. Penny makes these visits with her ‘mom’, Jan Haycraft.
Penny and My Dad — a Bond to Share
I am the daughter of Sid, who died last week that is mentioned in your article "Caring Canine Cover Dog Speaks Out", and can't thank you enough for making Penny your poster "child" for therapy dogs. My dad was featured in the 2011 Caring Canines calendar with Penny at the Cedarview Care facility. He is pictured singing, "You are My Sunshine" to her, and he meant every word.