Beatrice – the Easter Bunny – was my first therapy dog. The dog that started it all. Because of Beatrice, I have spent my life – since 1992 – working with therapy dogs and founding a therapy dog organization dedicated to bringing comfort and caring to those in need through visits from trained, certified therapy dogs.
The American Kennel Club breed standard for English Setters states that the temperament of an English Setter is gentle, affectionate, friendly, without shyness, fear or viciousness. Beatrice epitomized all of these qualities. Simply put, Beatrice was wonderful. Our three daughters showed Beatrice to her Championship (Ch Chebaco Miss Louella Parsons). With Beatrice, all three qualified to show in Juniors at Westminster. For our family, she was our wonderful family dog. And, for hundreds of residents at a local nursing, she was their dog every Friday afternoon where therapy dog Beatrice visited for nine years.
Beatrice loved attention – even when it involved dressing up as the Easter Bunny. In honor of Easter, I pulled this c. 1995 photo from the archives. HAPPY EASTER!