Renee Lindow, left, pet therapy volunteer, with spaniel Penny and Judy Sielaff, Golden K chairperson. (Joanne Lindholm photo)

By JOAN JOUPPI

For The Daily News

KINGSFORD — In the newspaper comic section, Garfield the Cat hates Monday. He goes through all kinks of antics to make sure his opinion is clearly understood. Monday mornings sometimes follow that pattern as we start the week and catch up with friends or coworkers. Each week elicits diverse reactions based on experiences.

The Golden K members approach their Monday morning with cheerful greetings and eagerly share their weekend activities.

Chairperson Judy Sielaff steps up to the podium, gavel in hand and dutifully signals the beginning of the meeting. Alyce Derwinski right on schedule settles in at the piano with Lois Outcelt leading the singing. Fortunately there are verses of the old songs printed in the songbooks. “Take Me Out To The Ball Game” is well known, however “The Whiffenpoof” song needed reference for the words. The morning singing ended with “Yes Sir That’s My Baby” and the seniors were back on track. The Welcome Song was sung for guest speaker Renee Lindow.

Sue Proudfit gladly picked up winnings from the 50-50 ticket and Gary Proudfit read the Happy Dollar Thoughts. As parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, we are all glad to have visits from family members. Joanne Hady was grateful for her return to the club and Bill Roberts celebrates Michigan Tech football and hockey team wins. The rest of the seniors enjoyed the many fall festivities going on around the community.

Judy’s Thought for the Day was “Dogs remind us to wag our tails more and worry less.” It was a good introduction for the day’s program featuring Renee Lindow, who has been working with therapy dogs for many years. Therapy dogs can bring comfort and enjoyment to folks in nursing homes, hospitals, or at home in hospice. Training is a big part of bringing a dog as a visitor and not all dogs are suited for the job. It’s a way for people to receive the unconditional love of a pet without the responsibility of ownership. Therapy dogs bring smiles to residents brightening their day. A wagging tail and friendly face walking up and placing a paw can make a patient feel relaxed and loved. Special training is required and facilities have rules that must be followed. Safety for the trainer, dog and patient is essential. Taking a dog to a facility requires instruction for both the dog and the trainer. There are people who would rather not have a dog visit and the presence of other animals can be a concern. The joy a happy dog brings has helped many people improve their attitude. Renee has been volunteering in this field for 20 plus years. She knows how to be prepared for unexpected events and make the most of the healing energy a dog can share.

Therapy dogs are a specific category under the larger heading of service animals. Other categories contain animals that are trained for finding drugs or lost people. Some are for emotional support and others can even get help if their owner have a seizure or medical emergency. Renee currently has a spaniel with cute button eyes and a backside that wiggles when petted. Her spaniel’s name is Penny and she has a knack for finding something on the floor that might be food. Last Halloween, Penny had a custom-made outfit resembling a Hoover vacuum cleaner. She used it well by cleaning any food spills she encountered while on her visits. Renee has a special love for her volunteer work with therapy dogs.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, with Bill Roberts as chairman. A representative of the Dickinson County Cancer Unit Loan Closet will be the guest speaker. Come join the seniors at Golden K. You don’t have to sing to enjoy the doughnuts and coffee. Good conversation and interesting programs await.