The Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) K-9 Abraham Comfort Dog from Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Hicksville is finding unique ways to stay in touch with those he interacts with every day, providing support and love to help people cope with the loneliness and isolation they may be feeling.
Photo courtesy of Donna Haines
Before the Covid-19 crisis hit Long Island, Abraham Comfort Dog had a full schedule of spreading love and comfort to nursing homes, rehabilitation programs, elementary schools, Nassau County Telecommunicators, and various other groups. Missing all of those he would visit, his team had to find creative ways to continue the comfort. Abraham went virtual. He, with the help of a handler, began Zoom visits. With the help of a link provided by Lutheran Church Charities, Abraham’s friends can set up a time to see and talk to Abraham through a video conference. While the piece of physical touch is missing, the connection of comfort is still there.
Photo courtesy of Donna Haines
How the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Serve Throughout the Country
LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs are working animals, trained to interact with people of all ages and circumstances who are suffering and in need. The dogs participate in scheduled and special events. Dogs are permanently placed with churches, schools and other ministries involved in Christian human care by LCC. Permanent placement includes full training for handlers and caregivers along with ongoing support, coaching and training. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs live in the homes of assigned caregivers. The LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs serve every day in the community in which they are placed and are dispatched in times of disaster and crisis to bring comfort to all those affected, including first responders and the volunteers who serve them. Lutheran Church Charities currently has over 130 LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs serving in more than 26 states.
Photo courtesy of Donna Haines
Photo courtesy of Donna Haines
