Task Force Welcomes Zeke & Albert

09.30.2009

Courtesy Story

1st Medical Brigade

A Military Therapy Dog refers to a dog trained to provide affection and comfort to people in military installations, military hospitals, VA hospitals, VA medical centers and VA nursing homes.

The 212th CSC utilizes Sgt. 1st Class Albert, the certified therapy dog, to facilitate Soldiers recovery from physical, mental or social issues using Albert as a "co-therapist" to achieve specific therapy goals in the wartime theater. Albert is part of the deployed Combat Stress team and will be visiting various units.

He is a specially trained skilled therapy dog provided by America's VetDogs. The plan is to have Albert involved in walk-abouts, one-on-one sessions, or group sessions. He will provide emotional comfort through physical interactions such as playing fetch or simple petting. "SFC Albert will provide an alternative way for Soldiers to deal with Combat and Operational Stress while deployed," said 1st Lt. Benjamin G. Tesfaye

Capt. David Norris at Contingency Operating Base Speicher is the primary handler for Sgt. 1st Class Zeke. However, he shares the responsibility. "We also have the following trained secondary handlers: Spc. Bennett, Sgt. West, Pfc. Coli, Sgt. Maze and Staff Sgt. Torbert," said Norris.

"So, far Zeke has been well received and is exceeding my immediate expectations. He has been to the CSH, surrounding clinics, Fitness Team run/walk, and is making our approach to the Soldiers easier and non threatening.

Soldiers easily approach Zeke with a smile to pet him, shake his hand etc ... During this encounter we are able to introduce our CSC services and get to know the Soldiers informally."

Although having Zeke in theater is a very positive thing, it does have a downside according to Norris. "The worst thing about Zeke is his black coat. He gets dirty easy and the heat can be unbearable quickly. He requires frequent rest periods as he acclimates to our climate" he said.

"Overall, it has been a lot of fun having Zeke join our team. Zeke creates another avenue for us to reach our Soldiers, talk about our services and provide a non threatening therapeutic experience"

• Date Taken: 09.30.2009
• Date Posted: 09.30.2009 16:34
• Story ID: 39512