Students were greeted this afternoon in the Welshimer Library by Indy and Lily, twin 11-year-old Weimaraners, and Rudy, a 14-year-old Toy Fox Terrier all decked-out in Holiday attire. They are trained certified therapy dogs, owned by Lou Pesch and his sister-in-law, Ms. Molly Smolko.
Indy, Lily, and Rudy are certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs and the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.). Rudy has been a therapy dog since he was 1-year-old. Indy and Lily were rescues, and it was Molly, who after observing their gentle dispositions encouraged Lou to get involved in training them as therapy dogs. The twins have been at it now for the last 7 years.
Indy, Lily, and Rudy are regular vistors to the Johnson City VA Hospital, the Children’s Hospital, Johnson City Public Library, and ETSU. We are so happy that they could also come and visit us here at Milligan College. They will be returning to the Welshimer Library on Wednesday (December 7) from 1-2 PM.
On Tuesday (December 6), the Library will host a Kitten Cuddle Puddle, sponsored by the Milligan College Occupational Therapy Department. Other Final Exam stress relief activities in the Library include puzzle and coloring stations, and free bubble wrap. The Library is also providing free coffee and tea all this week (while supplies last).
