Day 5: Senior Smiles

“Seeing Gus brought a smile to my dad’s face and changed everything for him.”

Shelly’s dad came all the way from West Virginia to attend her wedding, but soon after arriving, he fell ill and was admitted to Wellbrooke of Carmel; far from home, in an unfamiliar place, and struggling with his health and independence. The days felt long, lonely, and discouraging.

That’s when Gus, a Paws & Think therapy dog, arrived. Shelly shared, “He was smiling and happy! It changed his entire attitude and motivated him to work to get better. They talked about our mastiffs and dogs, and it took him out of the depressed state, thinking about better things outside of his current situation.”

During the visit, Gus and Shelly’s dad connected over their shared love of dogs, sparking conversation, laughter, and light in a difficult moment. The visit didn’t just brighten one person’s day as other residents passing by were also eager to pet Gus, spreading smiles throughout the facility.

Shelly’s story is one example of how our volunteers and therapy dogs are ready to step in, providing joy, comfort, and meaningful connections when they’re needed most.

Give Joy Today

Paws & Think’s work with seniors is just one way we create tails of joy in the community. Your support helps ensure that volunteers and therapy dogs like Gus can continue visiting hospitals, assisted living facilities, and other senior spaces to bring comfort, companionship, and happiness to those who need it most.