Woof! Meet Carle Health's new therapy pup, and learn how to get involved yourself
Share this @internewscast.com

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — Urbana’s Carle Foundation Hospital is welcoming a new member to its team of volunteer therapy dogs — Cooper!

The 14-month-old cockapoo has finished extensive mandatory training programs and is now ready to comfort people throughout the hospital, accompanied by his big sister “Sophie” and their owner, Jean Huddleston.

For the past three years, Huddleston has been volunteering once weekly. With Cooper now trained and grown, he can participate in the activities as well.

“I wanted something to do after I retired,” the volunteer explained.

Huddleston said there have been several unforgettable moments over the years, like when Sophie helped a woman experiencing Alzheimer’s.

“The mother began shouting and expressed herself vividly. She reached for Sophie, petting and chatting with her. Sophie was highly attentive and aware of the situation,” the dedicated volunteer recounted.

Huddleston said the woman hadn’t eaten for four days, but when the care team asked if she wanted to have lunch, the woman got excited and wanted food.

“For that moment in time, the woman was with us. The daughter could have a conversation with her,” she added.

Later on, Huddleston said another patient approached her to say, “Your dog saved my life.”

She met and bought Sophie a few years ago, intending to train her as a therapy dog in particular.

Huddleston is one of the few volunteers bringing her dogs in on a regular basis. If you’re interested in training your pup or getting involved in a similar way, reach out to Carle’s Volunteer Services department. You can call 217-383-6701 or email volunteer.services@carle.com.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

What You Need to Know: SCDNR Boat Inspections Over the Holiday Weekend

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – As you plan to enjoy the water this…

Trump Engages with Zelenskyy Following ‘Unproductive’ Conversation with Putin

WASHINGTON () Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had an “important and fruitful”…

The Effect of Trump’s Massive Legislative Bill on Health Care

The massive tax cut legislation passed by the House and Senate this…

Trump Set to Approve Major Legislation at July 4th White House Celebration

WASHINGTON () President Donald Trump is expected to sign his “big, beautiful…

Trump Celebrates ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ Success in Iowa: 5 Key Insights

President Trump on Thursday visited Iowa to kick off a year-long celebration…

Study Claims This City in Florida is the Most Dull in the U.S.

A recent study by FinanceBuzz has listed out “the most boring cities…

Asian Markets Show Mixed Performance amid Looming Trump Tariff Deadline; US Stocks Hit New Highs

MANILA – Asian shares showed a mixed performance on Friday following the…

Suspect Apprehended Following Police Evasion Incident in Jonesborough

JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) — A man was arrested Wednesday after allegedly fleeing…

“Cat Rescued from Eaton Fire Deemed ‘Too Needy’ for Shelter, Quickly Gets Adopted into a Loving Home”

A mature cat that arrived at a Pasadena shelter in the aftermath…

Royal Donut from Danville to Open New Location in Champaign

The cherished Danville-based Royal Donut is set to broaden its presence by…

Johnson Celebrates as House Approves Major Bill

WASHINGTON () U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., lauded the Republican Party’s…

Trump Supporters Applaud Pause on Ukraine Weapons Despite Concerns Over Iran Strikes

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump is receiving accolades from his staunchest supporters…