Helen of Troy, Gentle American Pitbull Terrier Therapy Dog par Excellence!
Helen of Troy wins award on Broadway!
Two local canines and their owners got the star treatment last week at the Broadway Barks Adopt-a-Thon in New York City's Shubert Alley, a yearly event organized by stars Mary Tyler Moore and Bernadette Peters on behalf of animal rescue organizations throughout the state. > > Out of the Pits President Cydney Cross and board member Helene Goldberger accompanied their pit bulls Grace and Helen of Troy to the 13th annual event, which culminated in an award ceremony honoring Out of the Pits for its outreach work with and on behalf of abandoned pit bulls.
Helen of Troy is a 5-year old American Pitbull Terrier belonging to Helene Goldberger and Paul Baitsholts of Berne. Helen, or HOT as she is affectionately known, has been visiting the Stratton VA in Albany NY, since July 5, 2010. When she arrives at the hospital, even before she steps on the elevator to go on her appointed rounds, she’s greeted with smiles and expressions of delight. The 39 pound Pitbull enjoys visiting the VA and adores everyone she meets. Helen didn’t start life destined to be a loved pet and therapy dog. In 2008, Helen, who was roaming the streets, was picked up by a Troy dog control officer. She was checked into the veterinarian’s office. Apart from being flea infested, she was also found to be deaf. Because of the difficulties in placing Pitbulls, particularly ones with any impairment, Helen was scheduled to be euthanized. However, thanks to the kindness and quick action of a veterinary technician who saw the “diamond in the rough,” Helen was rescued. Through the collaborative efforts of Pets without People, Out of the Pits, Animal Farm Foundation and the wonderful Pitbull Dog Sanctuary, Helene and her husband Paul were able to adopt Helen of Troy.After adopting Helen of Troy in 2010, Helene started a series of training classes culminating with a therapy dog test administered by Therapy Dog, Inc. Hand signals were used to communicate with her. Helen passed with flying colors and the tester suggested that Helen volunteer at the V.A. As they say, the rest is history. Helen and Helene try to visit the Albany VA Medical Center at least once a month. They also have started visiting the Rensselaerville Library where children actually read to her. Helen also has started to compete in dog agility!Stephanie Bonenfant, Director of Volunteer Services, said, “We love to have all our therapy dogs visit. They add a special dimension of attention and sweetness. All breeds are welcome here at the Stratton VA. We recognize that love comes in all shapes, sizes and colors.”Stacey Coleman, of Animal Farm Foundation, commented, “Everyone at AFF involved with Helen’s rescue and training knew she was destined to be, at minimum, a treasured pet and hopefully a great asset to her community with her sweet loving nature. We are delighted that she is all that – a true ambassador for her breed.”Owner Helene Goldberger said, “My husband and I love our rescued Pitbulls and are delighted that we can share their true nature with the community. Whenever Helen and I come to the Stratton VA, no matter if we are tired or worried about something, we always perk up quickly and are so energized by the good feelings that Helen engenders on every floor that she visits. We usually leave tired but very happy. For anyone thinking of this kind of volunteer work, I would say you gain a whole lot more than you give!”For more information about volunteering at the Albany Stratton VA Medical Center contact: Stephanie Bonenfant, Volunteer Specialist, 518-626-5508. > > For more of this story, click on or type the URL below: > > http://www.troyrecord.com/articles/2011/07/18/news/doc4e23a8c0980e7539370977.txt >
