Dog Therapy Brings Joy to Windsor Centre of Hope Residents

Bentley and his dog
by The Salvation Army in Canada
Categories: Articles, Emergency Disaster Services, Feature, Hope Stories
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The Salvation Army Centre of Hope in Windsor recently welcomed a furry friend —Bentley, a Great Dane therapy dog who has become a beloved source of comfort for residents, staff and volunteers.

Bentley’s presence has been transformative for 64-year-old Freddie, who has lived at the Centre of Hope for five months. A self-proclaimed big dog lover, Freddie felt connected with Bentley’s calm and reassuring presence.

“When I got up and walked away, Bentley followed me,” Freddie recalls. “I started rubbing his back, and he melted into my hands. You could tell how relaxed he was—he went right down to the floor on all fours.”

The time spent with Bentley, all thanks to St. John Ambulance, offers more than companionship for Freddie. It helps him keep his mind off his cancer diagnosis, which is now in remission.

“I just thought it was awesome because an animal is very non-judgmental,” he says. “They just love you and you love them, and there’s no in-between.”

Housing manager Marwa Al-Sahar introduced the program, which positively impacts the health and well-being of Centre of Hope residents.

“Many of our residents don’t have family or pets, so Bentley’s visit was truly special,” Marwa explains. “Therapy animals have an incredible ability to ease loneliness and lift spirits, perfectly aligning with our mission of holistic care.”

The initiative began after Marwa partnered with a St. John Ambulance volunteer who regularly brings Bentley to community programs each month. If interest continues, more therapy dogs may be added to the program.

“Bentley’s visits are a simple reminder of the love and hope animals bring,” says Centre of Hope community engagement specialist Shannon Barnwell. “Our residents light up when Bentley walks in. For those who often feel isolated, these moments remind them they’re cared for and never alone.”

Bentley’s presence has brightened lives and helped fulfill the Centre of Hope’s mission of creating a nurturing community where everyone feels valued and understood. Help The Salvation Army continue to provide compassionate programs in your community by donating today at www.SalvationArmy.ca or calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.