Man’s best friend to the rescue
Paws for People is using man's best friend to change people's lives - young and old.
The organisation has been making a tangible difference in people’s lives since its establishment by founder Lesley de Klerk in 1998.
Members and their canines visit hospitals, old age homes and drug and alcohol addiction centres, to name a few.
Paws for People is committed to bringing together dogs and people in a warm, non-threatening manner and ensuring positive interaction between the two parties.
The organisation operates nationally and has 26 visitation points across the East Rand.
The East Rand unit, which has been operational for 11 years, consists of 50 members, who conduct regular visits to various places, such as Hospice, The Life Gynnwood Hospital and Rynpark.
East Rand unit leader Eileen Calvert said the people benefit tremendously from the visits.
“So many people have animals, but have no interaction with them,” she said.
“The joy it brings to them is immeasurable.”
She added that people whose elderly parents have been visited by the therapy dogs said that it was the best medicine their parents had ever had, as a dog does not see a disability or judge, but only gives love.
Calvert said the organisation welcomes new members; there is no joining fee, but new recruits undergo an assessment.
People from as young as 12 years may join and they do not have to have a dog of their own.
For more information, contact Calvert on 082 397 4303.
