CMSS is happy to introduce Cid Stanford and her dog, Mr. Peabody. Cid and Mr. Peabody first came to Hartwell Place in the spring of 2024. At the time, Cid was interested in finding a nearby volunteer opportunity, and she wanted to share the joy of Mr. Peabody’s sweet personality with others. When Cid found Hartwell Place, located right in her neighborhood, she thought the memory care community would be a perfect fit.
For nearly a year, Mr. Peabody and Cid have visited residents around the building. They usually stop by once a week in the afternoon and make rounds to the lounges on each floor. A visit from a dog can be a calming and comforting experience for residents, especially those who have grown up with or lived with animals throughout their lives. A calm, cute, and friendly dog like Mr. Peabody can brighten a day, create opportunities for positive engagement, stimulate memories, and even reduce stress and anxiety for residents.
Mr. Peabody is certified as a Canine Good Citizen (CGC). This certification created by the American Kennel Club is awarded to dogs that meet ten test items in an evaluation, including accepting friendly strangers, behaving politely around other dogs, moving politely through a crowd, coming when called, and other competencies. Despite his academic achievements and formal name, Mr. Peabody is relaxed and is content to be the center of attention or to sit calmly to the side, whichever the resident he is interacting with finds more comforting.
Mr. Peabody is also working toward his certification as a Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy dog. This intensive program will train him to exceed expectations in providing care, comfort, and service to others.
Cid and her husband adopted Mr. Peabody, who started as a foster animal in their home. They realized pretty quickly that fostering would be a “fail” after he brought a lot of joy and fun to their lives.
Thanks to both Cid and Mr. Peabody for being part of the Hartwell Place community and brightening the days of residents and the Hartwell Place team!
