Valentine’s Day was in the air at the Mansion today, some of the residents were working on Valentine’s Day cards to send some New Jersey students who had sent them some Valentine’s Day cards, which they loved. In fact, writing the cards was today’s activity in the Activity Room.

Valentine’s Day is in the air there, there are baskets with hearts on them made by the staff, and I imagine some other stuff on the way from all over the country. I’m keeping it a surprise. But I think the staff knows, they read the blog. They are making room on the bulletin boards: The Mansion, 11 S. Union Street, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.

Red spent some time with Jean, she was very happy to see him. Many of the residents ask Red to give him his paw,  he is not trained to do any kind of tricks. But once during every visit, he offers his paw spontaneously – and very delicately – to his friends. Dog’s claws are important in therapy work, they can easily tear the skin of an older person if the dog is not careful and his nails not trimmed.

I am always humbled by the depth of feeling animals bring out in people. Red is a powerful example to me of the gift of animals to entertain and uplift people, even thought that has somehow – incomprehensibly to me – become controversial. I am understanding why people hate political correctness so much. It too often chokes the human spirit.

For those who asked, here are the first names of the Mansion residents who wish to receive messages. Some can respond, some can’t: Jean A., Mary, Gerry, Sylvie, Diane, Alice, Jean, Madeline, Joan, Allan, Carl (Bob), John K., Aileen, Christie, Helen, Connie, Alanna, Barbara, Peggie, Dennis, John R., Bruce, John Z.

Red was in wonderful form today, he made the rounds, was sweet and patient. After about 30-45 minutes, he is tired, and I stop. It is draining for good therapy dogs, intense kind of work.