Posted: Jun 15, 2010 9:21 AM
Updated: Jun 15, 2010 3:50 PM
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit The Glen Retirement Center. So when the article appeared on The Times' front page, I was interested in comparing my opinion with the reporter's view.
Yes, we were in total agreement that the facility is beautifully appointed, spotlessly maintained and the staff greets visitors and residents with friendly smiles and warm hellos. It truly seems this neighborhood-designed facility has gone to great lengths to ensure all the residents' needs are met.
One very important detail wasn't mentioned in the article. To an animal lover, being separated from a loving pet would be devastating. Here's how The Glen solved that potential problem.
Maureen Kidd oversees all the animal care at The Glen. Whether it's a kitty or the special canine program, all the residents' pet needs are met.
Maureen was given the opportunity to have the canine program with one stipulation, grow it! And grow it she has. She leads a band of canine brothers through the hallways. Frequent stops allow residents to pat and talk to the pups.
Residents now know many of the parade participants by name. Pups such as Easy, Luke, Gracie Mae, Starr, Pete, Carley, Tucker, Ben, Juliet and, of course, The Glen's own Zipper and Conner enjoy the outing as much as anyone. The residents often tell the pups not to forget them and please come back soon.
Although most of the canine members are certified therapy dogs, Maureen gives tips and guidance to the human handlers. This all results in a heartwarming, fulfilling experience for everyone.
Maureen guides her entourage through the hallways and on to the cottages. She always makes time to give a hug or warm comment to residents, staff and any other workers encountered.
Her work never seems to end. On Friday, she and canine friends are off to "meet and greet" at The Glenview Gardens Bossier. She also represents The Glen at Christus Schumpert Sutton Children's Medical Center, LSU Hospital, Shriners Hospital-Shreveport and the war veterans home.
If an animal requires medical attention, she's the chief transporter and caregiver. After working at a vet's office for years, she has a keen eye on the health status of each pet. They are all in top-notch condition.
And when all is said and done, Maureen maintains The Glen kennel. Whether it's washing parade bandanas, water bowls, filling food bowls or overall cleaning, she's in charge. She's a certified Delta Therapy Dog evaluator. Although she could have probably written the book, she's currently studying dog body language.
There you have it. A lady whose focus is to unite residents with well-behaved pups and growing her canine program.
G.H. Williams lives in Shreveport.
For more information on the Glen-Zadeck Canine Comrades Program, please contact Maureen Kidd at 318.798.3500