Flores, Fallbrook Rotary host Love on a Leash, Paws for Smiles

FALLBROOK — Last month, Dr. Daniel Flores and the Fallbrook Rotary hosted the Fallbrook/Temecula Paws for Smiles at a Rotary luncheon held at The Lace Apron. The therapy dog group was represented by Paws for Smiles members Kathleen Nieman with her service assistance/therapy dog Koda, Gloria McFarlin and her therapy dog Stevie and Nicole Davitz of Love on a Leash.

Nieman elaborated on how she became involved in therapy dog work and explained the difference between therapy and service dogs and Koda does double duty as a service/assistance dog and therapy dog.

Each member introduced her dog and described to the engrossed audience how their visits bring smiles and happy faces to nursing homes by carefully letting patients touch and hug the dogs. Additionally, they talked about reaching out to schools by participating in the READ program, which allows kids to read to the dogs while petting them at the same time. As an added feature, Nicole Davitz presented a slideshow of visits and elucidated on how dogs have become of value in the therapy field.

The Rotarians were very enthusiastic over the presentation. For their efforts, the Paws for Smiles members were treated to a wonderful lunch at The Lace Apron, which also provided homemade biscuits to the dogs. The Rotarians also had the chance to pet the dogs to get the feel of a visit.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of Paws for Smiles or Love on a Leash may call Love on a Leash chapter leader Nancy Makowski at (951) 302-6757.