Who Rescued Who?
Henry, a 2-year-old Australian Shepherd/Doberman mix, and his owner Cheryl Pliskin of Mt. Laurel, recently visited Providence House’s Safe House in Burlington County to take part in an afternoon of pet therapy for residents and their children (along with Providence House staff too)!
Henry’s journey to therapy work began after he was rescued from a shelter in Tennessee by Big Fluffy Dog Rescue. Cheryl was initially fostering Henry until he could find his “furever” home, but he quickly won her heart and her home. “I’m a failed foster parent,” Cheryl admits.
Cheryl and Henry attended training through Therapy Dogs International (TDI) where Henry proved that he is quite the over-achiever by completing the program in a month. “He’s comfortable around all people – adults, children, seniors – and in all types of settings,” Cheryl says.
A former social worker with a background of working with abused kids, Cheryl says she feels like her life is coming full circle through her therapy work with Henry.
Cheryl, who now owns Jest Notes & Baskets in Lumberton, brings Henry to work with her every day where he keeps a watchful eye on her and her staff. Henry will continue his rounds at Providence House twice a month and Cheryl also plans to have him start working with Veterans who are suffering from PTSD and victims of human trafficking.