Mental Health Thursday

How can I help you?

We visited West Pines yesterday (read about a previous visit here and the kinds of patients we see) and noticed that most of the staff were wearing green remembrance ribbons attached to their ID badges. When I asked what the occasion was, they said it was Mental Health week. I didn’t find anything online about it (it could have been a hospital campaign although I note it was Mental Health week in the UK from May 16 through May 22).

In any event, Sam was ready to provide his own version of therapy for a number of staff and patients. Here are some of Dogtor Sam’s therapy session notes.

From the moment we walked into the facility, Sam realized there was work to do. Not one to shirk his duties, he began even before our chaperone arrived to take us on our rounds. He   strolled over to a visitor sitting in the lobby. She sheepishly asked if she could pet Sam and as soon as the words came out of her mouth, he was standing next to her, tail-a-wagging. She got down on the carpet and looked deeply into his eyes. She bent close to him and whispered something in his ear. His tail wagged even more feverishly and he sat next to her while she began to massage his ears. It was the beginning of many massages for the furry therapist.

Sam saw several people, all of whom genuinely enjoyed seeing him. But his most memorable visit was with “Sarah,” a tall, thin woman with a vacant stare. She politely asked to face him as she sat in a chair and began stroking him gently. He looked deep into her eyes and seemed as if he was completely mesmerized by her gaze. She told me of her own service dog but I’m reluctant to quiz patients about their personal lives (HIPAA plus it’s really not my place to question them). It’s better just to let them share whatever they want. I could tell she was missing her service companion greatly but seemed more than happy to spend time with Sam. A few moments after she sat in front of him, a young bearded fellow came over and sat next to Sam. It seemed too much for her to have someone in such close proximity and she got up and moved to the other side of the day room but keep a watchful eye on her new furry friend. The young man sat and talked to both Sam and I, saying how much he enjoyed dogs and how much they seem drawn to him. Sam was enjoying his presence and after a few minutes sitting on the floor, he decided to get up and move around to loosen up a sore hip. As soon as he left, Sarah returned and sat down cross-legged on the floor in front of him. Sam seemed to realize she needed more of the kind of therapy he can provide and sat patiently with her. Soon he was laying on his side next to her while her fingers returned to massaging him in his favorite spots. A few of the staff commented at how relaxed Sam was and I noticed Sarah seemed more relaxed too. My heart swelled at the thought of this knucklehead making Mental Health Week a little more pleasant for a few peeps in need.

Live, love, bark! 🐾

105 thoughts on “Mental Health Thursday

  1. Kuldeep Singh – Hello, I am Kuldeep SIngh, and am currently pursuing my practice in medicine. In, this blog I share the best blogs and information related to the healthcare industry involving an array of healthcare facilities ranging from robotic knee replacement to paediatrics to orthopaedics etc.
    amandeephospitalasr says:

    Good article about the health. Thanks for sharing information

  2. weemontyandmissmolly – - Dog lover - Obsessive learner of dog behavior - Sucker for the puppy-dog eyes - Dog mom This blog was started as a place I could spew forth all the wonderful facts about my beloved dog Monty but as I started my first post and I could hear him barking, probably at someone two blocks over bringing their groceries in from the car, I realized that he pushes my buttons as much as he brings happiness to my life. Trust me this is not a complete love-fest about a perfect dog but everything written is written with an underlying love and in hopes that someone can relate to or learn from my experience of being owned by my 18lb four-legged yorkie-x . This will be all about my pooch Monty and my family's struggle to balance what we perceive to be love for him and what he perceives as an opening to 'up' his position in the family hierarchy. Please enjoy and feel free to comment, we love interaction!! Shannon Hobson
    weemontyandmissmolly says:

    I absolutely love when you share Sam moments, every single person I have met that is involved in the Therapy Dog environment are so caring and kind. I feel that perhaps we all need this program as much as the people that are on the receiving end. Truly a wonderful bonding of animals and people who truly need them.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      I often feel guilty because I’m convinced we get much more from visiting patients and staff than what we give them. 😍

      1. weemontyandmissmolly – - Dog lover - Obsessive learner of dog behavior - Sucker for the puppy-dog eyes - Dog mom This blog was started as a place I could spew forth all the wonderful facts about my beloved dog Monty but as I started my first post and I could hear him barking, probably at someone two blocks over bringing their groceries in from the car, I realized that he pushes my buttons as much as he brings happiness to my life. Trust me this is not a complete love-fest about a perfect dog but everything written is written with an underlying love and in hopes that someone can relate to or learn from my experience of being owned by my 18lb four-legged yorkie-x . This will be all about my pooch Monty and my family's struggle to balance what we perceive to be love for him and what he perceives as an opening to 'up' his position in the family hierarchy. Please enjoy and feel free to comment, we love interaction!! Shannon Hobson
        weemontyandmissmolly says:

        I hear ya!! Molly passed her evaluation to become a therapy dog last Saturday. One of my proudest moments and I can’t wait until we are out there making our visits!!! 🤗🤗 I am so excited to become a member of this organization !!

        1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
          Tails Around the Ranch says:

          Congratulations!! That’s pawsome. Can’t wait to hear your stories. Be prepared for some two tissue experiences. 😍

          1. weemontyandmissmolly – - Dog lover - Obsessive learner of dog behavior - Sucker for the puppy-dog eyes - Dog mom This blog was started as a place I could spew forth all the wonderful facts about my beloved dog Monty but as I started my first post and I could hear him barking, probably at someone two blocks over bringing their groceries in from the car, I realized that he pushes my buttons as much as he brings happiness to my life. Trust me this is not a complete love-fest about a perfect dog but everything written is written with an underlying love and in hopes that someone can relate to or learn from my experience of being owned by my 18lb four-legged yorkie-x . This will be all about my pooch Monty and my family's struggle to balance what we perceive to be love for him and what he perceives as an opening to 'up' his position in the family hierarchy. Please enjoy and feel free to comment, we love interaction!! Shannon Hobson
            weemontyandmissmolly says:

            I can’t wait!!! Bring on the tears, I just hope that the happy tears and heart wrenching balance out!! 🙏❤️

            1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
              Tails Around the Ranch says:

              They do but there are some days when you’ll be touched in ways you couldn’t possibly imagine.

  3. It’s second nature for Sam. It’s harder on me because I too often think, “but for the grace of God there go I”. Its a amazing article.

  4. Enjoyed reading the blog above, really explains everything in detail, the blog is very interesting and effective. Thank you and good luck for the upcoming blogs.

    Hello, I am Dr. Nitesh Khonde expert in Traditional & Modern Ayurveda and panchakarma therapy. I like your article above there are so many ways to prevent, Ayurveda is the natural process for all kind of treatment over Mental Health and other health issues…

  5. Straight Arrow – Denver, Colorado – Journalist, humorist, dedicated but disillusioned citizen/patriot. Sharing, selling, and sometimes eating my words. .... .... sometimes mumbling too ...
    Straight Arrow says:

    🐬🐬🐬🐬🐬

  6. Tirupati Stone Hospital – New Delhi – We, TIRUPATI STONE CENTRE, are a well-known stone treatment centre in Delhi. Founded in the year 2003 with the aim to deliver the best treatments for stone in kidney and urinary parts of human body. Also, we specialize in all sorts of urology stone problems that can be treated flawlessly by our experienced doctors and surgeons without any pain. We enable patients coming with stone pains to go with a smile after getting their stones removed by us. Our medical centre is famous for ultimate treatment of stone removal and have given the best results to many patients. http://www.tirupatistonecentre.com
    Manish suyal says:

    nice information. very insightful thoughts

  7. sophiaelizabet – Hello there, Thanks for dropping by! My name is Sophia Elizabeth and I am a bunch of different things: writer, recipe developer, cookbook author, and a graphic designer who is very interested in nutrition and health and who cooks rather well. I love cooking and my love for food and cooking is definitely developed from a very young age. And it was really due to my mother that I found a love for cooking. My mother she is an incredible cook and a genius in the kitchen. My childhood was spent watching and helping her in the kitchen. Still I spend my time at her side preparing for family dinners (which are everyday) there are five of us at the table, holidays, and celebration. She encourages my cooking by supplying me with cookbooks and advice.
    easydinneridea says:

    Mental health is about being emotionally, cognitively and socially healthy and the way we think, feel and develop relationships and not merely the absence of a mental health condition.

  8. Dogtor Sam you are just what THE Dogtor ordered!!! LadyMew cuud use sum ‘Poochie Therapee’……shee iss down aftur Kissmas day….shee went to THE farm an had a guud time butt shee ended upss at’ angel’ Unkell Siddhartha’ss grave an cried a lot. Poor LadyMew….what do you purr-scribe???
    ***purrsss*** BellaDharma

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Sorry to hear your mum is down. I’ll send special delivery digital tail wags for her and hope she feels better. ❤️

  9. DR AZMIN – USA NEW YORK – I am professional doctor . i like to help the people that's why i made a blog stronglover and i writing some about some important article if have any question than ask me
    DavidA Gaines says:

    thanks for very awesome post

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Our pleasure. And thank you for swinging by the Ranch; we 💜visitors.

  10. Senthil Dental Care – India – Find out the best Dental clinic in Chennai which has advanced dental care techniques and standard equipments to serve you better. We are the best Dental hospital in Chennai as we provide the best qualitative services which are convenient and affordable. http://www.senthildentalcare.in/
    senthil dentalcare says:

    good article. thanks for sharing this blog. write some dental blogs now a days people are not aware in dental problems.
    http://www.senthildentalcare.in/services/root-canal-therapy/

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      And thank you for swinging by the Ranch. We 💜 visitors.

  11. Great Article….thank you so much !!!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      You’re very welcome. And thank you for swinging by the Ranch. We ❤️ visitors.

  12. Ekenechukwu – I am a health blogger I studied medical physiology. Womenfit.org is a women's health blog that is concerned with beauty tips and fitness for women.
    Ekenechukwu says:

    Nice post you have.

    Its great to note that mental health is one of the best ways to keep our body fit.

    To take care of the mind is to take care of the body.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      We couldn’t agree more. Thank you for swinging by the Ranch. We 💖visitors.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks for swinging by the “Ranch.” We 💙 visitors.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thank you…that’s kind of you to say. I sure hope we are able to make it better for others, even if just for a few moments.

  13. I have a lovely little kitten who is the light of my life. She has been with me through an episode and guides my way xXx

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Aw shucks, thanks! Blush, blush.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Aw, thanks. I’m kind of biased but totally agree with you.

  14. Sand Spring Chesapeakes – Cambria, WI – My husband and I have six "furry" children Gambler, Glory, Guilty, Slammer, Gertie and one cat Bones and two furangel's Norman and Nellie. We breed Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. We are both avid hunters. We also enjoy competing with our dogs in hunt tests and field trials. That is where you can find us during the trial months which are April-September. When were not at a trial we are busy training our dogs. We go snow goose hunting in Canada each year and do all the hunting that Wisconsin offers.
    Sand Spring Chesapeakes says:

    Good job Sam, I need a mental health day!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Luckily I have time to fit you in. ☺️

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks, Olivia!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      I’m sure the hospital doesn’t even know my name but all the dogs have business cards. Go figure.

      1. I’ll take that bet…I am 100% sure you are not only well known but appreciated and treasured for what you and the Furbeast do.

        1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
          Tails Around the Ranch says:

          More like “day, aren’t you Sam’s mom?”

  15. Dakota/Caren/Cody – Michigan – Freelance writer, pet blogging professional, product influencer, half of the writing team behind Dakota's Den and "Cat Chat With Cody & Caren" Most importantly, I am a "pet mom" to Dakota, (Shetland Sheepdog) and Cody (my silver gray tabby!)
    Dakota/Caren/Cody says:

    I am certain that Sam makes EVERY week better for so many…………I am CERTAIN of it!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Some weeks he isn’t really in it so we keep the session really short. For the record, I’m not up for it every time either. 🙃

  16. twoonfourfeet – I really can count, but I can’t seem to exercise restraint when it comes to adopting dogs. Three dogs can’t be any more trouble than two, right?
    twoonfourfeet says:

    Sounds like Sam did good work today and you two were quite the blessing. Way to go!

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Sam did great and was very patient, even with some of the more challenging patients.

  17. That story of Sarah enjoying Sam so very much made my heart swell. You definitely did something very good during that visit. It must be so rewarding when you have visits like that one.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      I’m always grateful when he can make anyone feel even a little better. I think in Sarah’s case, he did that and then some.

  18. The Canadian Cats – Prince George, BC, Canada – I have been married for like AGES and AGES according to Shoko. A whole 47 years. Shoko is my only young'un. Bill and I have lived in Prince George, British Columbia, Canada for 34 years. Gardening is my passion and also Shoko's passion. Bill's passion is being included as a member of Shoko's family.
    The Canadian Cats says:

    What a great post. Sam is indeed serving a great service for the disabled. This service continues the love of pets and is much needed. I am trying to get peeps to understand how valuable a service this is and the positive impact on those suffering.

    Hugs,

    Jean

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      It seems like the general attitude is improving on how pets can help the sick heal. At least that’s what I tell myself.

  19. It is truly a gift. I knew Lexi was here on earth to give joy to others, and I would say the same about Sam.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      He is without a doubt one of the sweetest creatures I’ve ever had the pleasure to know. It was a miracle getting him here but boy howdy…what luck!

  20. It is so amazing to know how much a dog, or a cat, can help somebody to relax just being near. Amazing is also how a dogtor knows what to do, what is the best way with different people.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      That 6th sense of their’s is always on display…they have an amazing ability to size up a situation and the person.

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      They go with his business cards! LOL

        1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
          Tails Around the Ranch says:

          It’s just hilarious all the dogs in the program have business cards. I wonder if they even know my name! 😆

  21. Kate Crimmins – Retired Human Resources executive with two bossy cats ready to share insights, experiences and wisdom to make you laugh and think in new ways.
    Kate Crimmins says:

    Sounds like Sam gets as much from the therapy as the patients although it may be more critical for them. Sam gets love anywhere he goes! 🙂

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      He definitely does get a lot of therapeutic touch which can help him process any negative energy some patients may have. I like that it’s a full circle, quid pro quo.

  22. The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap – The year 1895 was filled with memorable historical events: the Dreyfus Affair divided France; Booker T. Washington gave his Atlanta address; Richard Olney, United States Secretary of State, expanded the effects of the Monroe Doctrine in settling a boundary dispute between the United Kingdom and Venezuela; and Oscar Wilde was tried and convicted for "gross indecency" under Britian's recently passed law that made sex between males a criminal offense. When the news of Wilde's conviction went out over telegraphs worldwide, it threw a small Nevada town into chaos. This is the story of what happened when the lives of its citizens were impacted by the news of Oscar Wildes' imprisonment. It is chronicle of hatred and prejudice with all its unintended and devastating consequences, and how love and friendship bring strength and healing. Paulette Mahurin, the author, is a Nurse Practitioner who lives in Ojai, California with her husband Terry and their two dogs--- Max and Bella. She practices women's health in a rural clinic and writes in her spare time. All profits from her book are going to animal rescue, Santa Paula Animal Shelter, the first and only no-kill shelter in Ventura County, CA, where she lives. (see links below on Ventura County Star Article & Shelter) To find out more please go the The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap on facebook or Amazon or e-mail us at the gavatar addresses. Thank you. (photos: of Paulette, her family, and a reading at The Ojai Art Center, July 2012)
    The Persecution of Mildred Dunlap says:

    Sam, you a a wonderfully compassionate soul. A very special thank you for helping Sarah. <3

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      It was my pleasure. In her heart, I saw a person who needed some good dogtoring.
      Your fur-iend,
      Sam🐾

  23. Kismet – New River, Arizona. – I'm a 16 year old Indian Ringneck parrot curmudgeon in New River, Arizona in the wild west country. If you're a sunflower seed, you're dinner.
    Kismet says:

    Can I order some of that mental health from Amazon?

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Probably, but I’m guessing shipping isn’t covered even with Prime.

  24. My Golden Life – Upstate South Carolina – I love animals, especially dogs. I enjoy US history, and reading biographies of our former presidents and other historical figures. I love the music of the '60s and '70s since I was growing up in those decades. I love the Beatles and Andy Williams equally.
    My Golden Life says:

    Sam, you are such great comfort to so many folks in need! I applaud you, buddy! Keep up the good work! ❤️❤️🐾🐾

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thank you for the kind words. This dog has such a knack-he fills my heart with such loving pride.

      1. My Golden Life – Upstate South Carolina – I love animals, especially dogs. I enjoy US history, and reading biographies of our former presidents and other historical figures. I love the music of the '60s and '70s since I was growing up in those decades. I love the Beatles and Andy Williams equally.
        My Golden Life says:

        ❤️💖💗💜

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      It’s second nature for Sam. It’s harder on me because I too often think, “but for the grace of God there go I.”

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Indeed, they surely do. We’d do well to emulate them more.

  25. colinandray – S. Ontario, Canada – My profile photo is of Ray. Despite the fact that I had never had a dog in my life before him, and despite the fact that he carried more emotional baggage than I could ever imagine, he carved for himself a huge niche in my heart.
    colinandray says:

    Great work Sam (and Monika) 🙂

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Now Colin…you know Sam does all the work. 😉

      1. colinandray – S. Ontario, Canada – My profile photo is of Ray. Despite the fact that I had never had a dog in my life before him, and despite the fact that he carried more emotional baggage than I could ever imagine, he carved for himself a huge niche in my heart.
        colinandray says:

        Of course! That’s why I just politely made you an “add-on”!

        1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
          Tails Around the Ranch says:

          😇

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      There were loads of treats for Sam, in fact, I let Sarah give him one. They both seemed pleased.

  26. easyweimaraner – brittany – Weimaraner /Braque de Weimar, born in 2009, male & fabulous From: Britanny / France Likes: Plushtoy-Shredding, Spikebones,long distance Walks, everyday a Gift, Chicken, Shoes, Underwear, my squeekie Pig & my whole Life Dislikes: Water, Cats, Beaf, Cats, cleaning my Ears, Cats, the Vet, Cats, Snow & CATS! Profession: Student of psychological War-technics & Terrorism, after my Masterdegree i become to rule the world or maybe to be the owner of toys r us. actually i'm not sure... Status: Single Pets: Hell, NO! i prefer a petfree home. but owner of two slaves for my comfy Misc.: Greencardowner for Masterbed, Master of Beggin, Prince of Thiefs We decided to leave Easy's datas as they were... although we lost him in november 2016, he is still with us.... and his little brothers Phenny and Nelly promised to write on not as Easy the weim, but as easy Weimaraner... About us: Mr. Phoenix, born 9/9/2016 a virgo and always clever&smart...Neilson, born 7/28/2017 a leo who thinks he is clever&smart...
    easyweimaraner says:

    oh I hope you can visit Sarah again soon… it seems you are the one who can make her days a little brighter… We often are helpless when we have to deal with mental issues in our family, so thank you today to all who work to help out at this front and who have a heart and open ears to the problems of patients and their families…

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Mental health patients (and those suffering from addiction) have special needs. Sam seems to know what they are and how to brighten their day even if just for a couple of minutes.

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