therapy dog – 60plus and loving life

life is good, loving life & all that it brings!

By 60plus&lovinglife May 2, 2024 0

Here we are almost half way through the year! Woooo, time surely does fly!

For me, this has been a great year and I am sure it will continue to be fabulous.

Last year was a bit of a dumpster fire healthwise and slowed me down a tad. But not entirely, I still kept up my dancing and gym and running in amongst it all. I think all of those things kept me going both physically and for my emotional wellbeing.

I also surround myself with the best people. My friends and family (most notably my daughter) and my partner are the most supportive and beautiful humans you could ever wish to have in your life.

I finally learned to keep my boundaries strong and to recognise early on any toxic, negative people and to either keep them at a distance or gently remove them from my life.

I don’t do drama. I do not welcome aggressive or negative people in my life. They are welcome to be whoever they wish to be – but at a nice, healthy distance from me!

My partner is an absolute delight. He is gentle and warmhearted, kind, smart, unique, funny and adorable!

We have a lot in common and he is also my dance partner. He loves my dog and cat and that to me, is also the measure of a good man.

My dance friends are wonderful. Their energy and enthusiasm buoy me up whenever I am in their company. You cannot feel sad when you are on the dance floor! My dance teachers are also wonderful people – they are warm and welcoming.

They are supporting a lovely couple who joined relatively recently, picked up the moves quickly and recently won a couple of National titles. This couple are aiming for the world titles and our dance teachers are running a fundraising dance for them with full support from everyone in our community so we can send them across the country to compete! We all love Brooke & Pete – they are the loveliest couple you could ever wish to meet and we will all be wishing them the very best at the World Championship!

My gym buddies and trainers are likewise awesome people. They continually give me courage and strength to keep going and to aim for my strength and fitness goals. It is very much a community of likeminded people and we are welcoming of all newcomers and supportive of everyone, regardless of where they are at in their fitness & strength journey.

I retired early this year and it is the best decision and I wish I had done it earlier. I am loving living my life at my own, gentler pace. I am quite busy, but I have time and can make time to look after my wellbeing and take the occasional nap whenever I feel like it!

Apart from dancing, running & the gym. I am volunteering with my dog (George the Therapy Dog) doing one-off visits. I also volunteer with a cat rescue organisation and drive kittens and abandoned cats to carers and foster homes. I have also been volunteering with a refugee organisation. Basically, I am almost more busy than I was when working. However, it’s a type of busy that I enjoy and I have fun doing.

I occasionally work at my friend’s gym – on an ad-hoc basis. Usually, when she has other commitments and I can step in – again, only when it fits in with my life and my commitments.

All up, life is really good and I am happy and content. You really can’t ask for much more from life!

imagecredit:tatyanagladskih

Share this article

all about the dog

Paws of Resilience: A Journey Through Cruciate Ligament Surgery

By 60plus&lovinglife October 19, 2023 0

In the world of wagging tails and furry companions, life’s twists and turns can sometimes lead to unexpected challenges.

This year, my beloved dog faced one such hurdle when he needed cruciate ligament surgery on his left hind leg.

The journey was fraught with risks and uncertainties, but it also highlighted the incredible benefits of a supportive community, the beauty of well-wishers, and the boundless love that surrounds us.

My dog is more than just a pet; he’s a cherished member of the family, a loyal companion who has stood by my side through thick and thin.

When we received the news that he needed this surgery, my heart ached with worry, not only for his health but also for the difficult road ahead.

Cruciate ligament surgery comes with its own set of risks, including post-surgery complications and a lengthy recovery period.

The benefits, however, are worth every ounce of concern. The surgery promises to restore my dog’s mobility and alleviate his pain, allowing him to live a life of comfort and happiness once more.

Whilst the recovery period is long and challenging, the outcome is a testament to the remarkable advancements in veterinary care and the potential for our furry friends to overcome adversity.

What truly astonished and humbled me throughout this journey was the outpouring of support from well-wishers near and far.

Friends, family, and even those we’ve touched through our volunteer work rallied around us. For over a decade, my dog and I have dedicated our time to serving the community, visiting hospitals, kindergartens, schools, retirement homes, and dementia facilities.

We’ve seen firsthand the impact of a warm, furry presence on people’s lives, and now the community has come together to give back and show us just how loved we are.

The kindness and generosity of people, some of whom we’ve never even met, have been a shining light in our lives. The support, both emotional and financial, has been a beacon of hope during the darkest days of our journey.

The community’s rallying spirit reminds us that there are beautiful, kind-hearted individuals in this world who will go out of their way to make a difference.

These experiences reinforce the notion that love knows no boundaries. Whether it’s the bond between a person and their four-legged companion or the connection forged through shared acts of kindness, the human spirit is capable of remarkable things.

It’s a testament to the beauty of empathy, the power of unity, and the extraordinary capacity of the heart to love and care for others.

As I navigate this journey alongside my furry friend, I am eternally grateful and humbled by the overwhelming support we have received. The recovery may be challenging, but the love and kindness we’ve encountered along the way have made it all worthwhile.

To everyone who has extended a helping hand, offered a kind word, or shared in our journey, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

You’ve not only touched our lives but have also reminded us that the world is full of warmth, generosity, and love, waiting to embrace us when we need it most.

Much love to Dr John and the team at Riverton/Rossmoyne Vet Clinic❤️

x-ray of dog leg with plate and pins — x-ray of plate and pins

Share this article

random thoughts...

Reflections on Life

By 60plus&lovinglife September 15, 2023February 29, 2024 0

I have had a lot of time this year to reflect on my life. Time spent in countless medical waiting rooms to see various specialists, waiting for scans, staying still in scanning machines and a few stays in hospital for operations and other procedures.

All up I am deeply grateful for my life. I have the most wonderful, loving people around me and I could not be more blessed. Yes, there have been challenges and sometimes I have ended up in tears when it all got a bit overwhelming. But equally I have laughed many times at the absurdity of things and very much realise that life is strange, fabulous, harsh, beautiful and the most precious gift that we have.

When I have felt overwhelmed I have thought to myself “ok, deal with this one thing and move forwards.” Mostly that works. Occasionally, it’s like “seriously universe?” Overall, I am reminded that I am fortunate to live in a country with excellent health care and that I can afford private health insurance (I prefer private rooms in hospital – that’s just me and I am deeply grateful for the privilege.)

Today I reflect on all the things that brought me to this point in life. It has been a wonderous journey, occasionally strange and some wrong turns. But I always get back on track, put one foot in front of the other and look towards the future whilst appreciating my here and now.

I have some beautiful friends around me who always offer their love and support. I have been saddened to see four long-term relationships end over the last couple of months for some of my dearest friends. Each of my friends are the kindest, sweetest and most loving of people. It is now my turn to offer my loving friendship and support to them to be a small part of their path forwards into their new lives.

They are all at various stages in the grief process and it is heartbreaking to see them go through this challenge.💔 There is shock and bafflement as to why things have to end. I have wrapped my arms around them (two in person and two virtually due to distance) and told them they are beautiful souls who deserve to be loved and cherished. They really, really do deserve the very best.

Yesterday was RUOK Day and I am reminded that we do need to care for each other and reach out, not just today, but everyday and ask “how are you?” Do it from a place of authenticity. Ask with a genuine belief that you want to hear the answer. A lot of people are not ok at all. Many do not want to share their grief, pain or depression. But if you give them the space and be prepared to listen, hear and offer empathy, then you may help someone open up.

You don’t have to fix things for them. Often listening is enough or a start at least. I have had times where I have been stoic and just pushed through things. Other days I have walked into work feeling mostly fine, then someone says “hey, how are you?” and I end up in tears. I am deeply fortunate that I work in a very supportive environment with really wonderful people and an understanding and empathetic boss.

I am the Safety & Wellbeing officer in my workplace. For RUOK Day I took my dog into work (he’s a registered therapy dog) for customers and team to pet and cuddle. One girl said she was feeling really down that day and seeing George immediately lifted her spirits and changed the tone of her day.

My message to you all is to be gentle with yourself. Life has many twists and turns. We can have our hearts broken, we can suffer sudden or chronic illness, we can lose people. But if we genuinely and carefully nurture ourselves, then we have the capacity and bandwidth to help each other through the good times and the bad.

As I take one step after another into my future I am fortunate to have my daughter, family & friends by my side offering love and support, laughter and joy. Equally, I am there for them for anything they may face – good or bad – now and in the times ahead. Gratitude is my daily mantra:

I put my energy into things that matter to me. I am grateful for my life’s challenges for helping me grow and become who I am. I am grateful for my dreams and I know I have the power to manifest them. I love myself, respect myself, and accept myself exactly as I am.

mainimage credit:brandreka

gratitudejar-credit:teachcheat

Share this article

health and fitness

Finding Strength and Joy: Visiting the oncology ward patients with my therapy dog

By 60plus&lovinglife July 20, 2023 0

Life often takes us on unexpected paths, revealing both profound challenges and moments of incredible resilience. In this post, I share my journey of visiting patients at an Oncology ward with my therapy dog George. What makes this experience particularly poignant is the fact that I too am dealing with cancer on two fronts. Breast cancer and an unrelated non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in my abdominal region.

Together, George and I embarked on a visit to bring solace, hope, and unconditional love to those navigating their own cancer journeys.

A Shared Bond

George and I share an unbreakable bond. He has worked with people of all ages from toddlers through to the elderly and he instinctively knows how to be gentle and loving with everyone. He and I are united in our determination to make a positive impact on others facing all sorts of challenges in life.

Overcoming Obstacles

Visiting the Oncology ward with George is no easy feat, given that I too have cancer. However, the desire to bring comfort to cancer patients outweighs any obstacle in our path. Together, we navigated the corridors of the hospital, fuelled by a shared purpose to uplift spirits, and bring smiles to weary faces.

Despite the difficulties, George’s presence by my side offers a renewed sense of purpose and strength. Everybody was happy to see him and get all the pats – both staff and patients alike! Cuddles all round for everyone! So much happiness, joy and giant smiles!

Finding Empathy and Connection

As George and I entered the Oncology ward, the air was thick with emotions. The patients, each fighting their own battles, recognized a kindred spirit in our presence. The shared understanding of the challenges we face created an instant connection—a silent reassurance that they are not alone. Through George’s gentle interactions and my own empathetic conversations, we forged bonds that transcend words, offering solace and a camaraderie and a feeling of friendships made.

Moments of Healing

In the Oncology ward, the power of George’s therapy work is magnified by my personal understanding of cancer’s impact. We witnessed the transformative effect of his presence, as patients’ weary faces lit up with joy.

The simple act of petting George’s soft fur became a source of comfort and respite, momentarily transporting them away from the sterile hospital environment. In those moments, I also found solace and purpose, knowing that I am making a difference in someone else’s journey.

We shared our personal stories and journeys, noting many similarities and some stark differences. Men and women of all age groups were there. Every single person was excited to have time with George and for me to stop by for a chat and a laugh (and yes, we all still have a sense of humour!)

Reflection and Gratitude

As I reflect on our visit to the Oncology ward, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. George’s gentle soul and unwavering love has not only touched the lives of patients but also provided me with strength and purpose on my own cancer journey. In the act of giving, we receive a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the healing power of love and companionship.

Visiting patients with George was a beautiful time of sharing our love. In spreading joy to those in need, George and I discovered a renewed strength and purpose. As we navigate the challenging terrain of cancer, we find solace in the connections we forge, the smiles we bring, and the hope we instill.

Together, we demonstrate that even in the face of adversity, love and compassion can prevail, lighting the way for brighter tomorrows.

Main image credit:WaggingTailsPhotography

Share this article

all about the dog

Therapy dog goes to school!

By 60plus&lovinglife June 26, 2023 0

Hello and I hope you are having a good start to your week!

I’ve spoken before about my dog George. He’s a therapy dog and we volunteer at various places to help people feel better and we’ve even worked with people with dog phobias to assist them overcome their fears.

George is 12 years old now, so he’s basically semi-retired (a bit like myself!). Nowadays we only go to a small number of places each year. We used to volunteer at a dementia facility every weekend, he was the local university’s therapy dog and he has also visited high schools, primary (elementary) schools and childcare centres.

Every year we are invited to a local primary school’s Leadership Day and this year we were again part of the team of people chosen to speak with young people about what leadership means.

I prepped a PowerPoint presentation and put George into his therapy dog harness, collar & lead and we went into three classrooms to talk with the kids.

I also tied in the school’s values within the presentation to make it more meaningful to the children.

The children (and the teachers!) were thrilled to have George visit and after the presentation they all sat is a circle and gave him all the pets and cuddles!

It is just so beautiful to see the interaction between George and the children. He loves it as well, but he does tire more easily these days! (Again, a bit like me!😂)

Hug your dog and your children. Consider volunteering in your community if you have the time and capacity and if you do, I hope you have as much fun as we do!

Love and hugs to you all ❤️

Share this article

all about the dog

My dog is a ball thief!

By 60plus&lovinglife March 7, 2023 0

Took my Georgie-boy to the park this morning for our usual morning meander.

He played with a cute l’il mini Schnauzer. I am always happy to see my dog play like a puppy. He’s nigh on 12 years old and he still thinks he’s a pup! But then don’t we all? Don’t be telling us we old! No such thing! 😂

I’ve mentioned before that George is a semi-retired therapy dog. He has spent hundreds of hours making folk feel better, calming them down in times of stress and anxiety. Helping people overcome dog phobias. He loves all people, from the tiniest of toddlers to the very old and infirm. He literally has endless patience with people wanting to pet him, talk with him, play with him and take photos of him (I swear he has more photos on his social media than I will ever have!) – you can check out his FB at George_the_Therapy_Dog (click the link). He’s on Insta as well and you can see all his gorgeous photos! @george-the-therapy-dog

He has the best traits for this type of work. He is calm, gentle, patient and sweet natured.

He is also my best friend.

Everybody loves him.

His only vice is stealing other dog’s tennis balls! Check that photo…. is he looking guilty? or is he looking pleased with himself?

I was just about to leave the park to head home and I called him over and he came trotting along with his latest acquisition! I let him happily and proudly trot one more time around the park with the ball (by this stage, there were no other dogs or people in the park – so I have no idea who owned the ball). I then placed the ball on the park bench in case the owner returned.

Usually I apologize for his cheeky behaviour if the ball owner is around, most times people end up throwing the ball for him and their own dog. That’s the thing with dog people, they are a nice mob. We get it. We love our dogs.

We also know that people who don’t like dogs are a little bit peculiar (I’m not talking about people who are scared of dogs – but for sure we can help you with that!), but when I come across a non-dog person I wonder what is wrong with them, often they are emotionally cold and have no empathy for dogs or people. They are the ones to avoid!

Peace and waggly tails to you – love and hugs from George and I to you and yours! 🐾 🤗

Share this article

all about the dog

Throw Back Thursday!

By 60plus&lovinglife October 13, 2022 0

This is a pic of my dog George when he was a pup, right after his first groom! He’s now 11 years old and he’s the most loving, sweet, and friendly dog. I picked him up from the groomers this week after his latest session and the woman who groomed him said (and I hear this often), that he is so chill when they bathe and clip him, he just sits there patiently or gently leans against them during the drying and clipping phase.

He is a very chill and relaxed dog. When he was two years old, I read about therapy dogs and volunteering. I thought that sounded the perfect thing for George and I. He loves people of all ages and I like volunteering. I signed him up for training and testing his suitability. He passed with flying colours, and they said they had never met a such a calm and gentle dog!

Over the years, George and I have volunteered at a dementia facility, childcare centres, primary and high schools and several university campuses.

It’s been both a privilege and a pleasure to bring joy and comfort to people young and old! 🥰

Share this article

Tag Archives therapy dog