Star and Sunshine at Children's Dental Village

Star and Sunshine

Therapy Dogs, Born October 1998, Employed 2003

Star and Sunshine actually spent the first year of their life in training at Children's Dental Village. Joyce Anne placed two dog crates next to her desk in 1998, the year they were born in Gilbert, Arizona. Their trainer insisted that they stay close to Joyce Anne during their intensive first months of training. That's how they learned the difference between acceptable and unacceptable behavior.

In 2001, when they began their work as therapy dogs they underwent intensive screening to be sure their training had paid off. They had to demonstrate that they would never jump on people, never bark at little people, and wouldn't lick. They must always be available for hugs and pets, always offer unconditional love, and play nice.

"We wag our tails when we see children come towards us. Sometimes we lay on the floor with the little people who come to pet us. We are always excited when a big person like a Mom, or a Dad, or even Grandparent gets down on the floor with us. Life at Children's Dental Village is good!"

When they are not at work Star and Sunshine enjoy chasing balls, chewing on bones, taking naps next to Joyce Anne while she is writing, and jumping in the pool. "We are very lucky dogs!"

July 2010 Update

Goodbye Star

On July 7, 2010 Children's Dental Village Therapy Dog Star died of complications from lymphoma. She would have continued to serve her family and all the children who have loved her for so many years no matter how weak she had become. Her human companions knew when it was time to release her. Sunshine spooned with Star just hours before her death; and was lying next to her sister when Star took her last breath. As a dog who was always part of our work of healing and serving children, Star fulfilled her life purpose. We are grateful to know that Gabriel’s Angels will provide a way to memorialize Star’s life and carry on her work – to deliver healing pet therapy to children. Sunshine is doing her part by going to work every day at Children’s Dental Village. She hasn’t learned how to play ball without Star (who was always the one who returned the tennis ball to their human playmates), but she certainly knows how to nuzzle and tenderly welcome the children and adults who come for dental appointments.

To make a donation to Gabriel's Angels in Star's memory, please visit http://www.gabrielsangels.org/donate_memory.php