‘Little Cliff’ brings comfort, joy, purpose to Wellington Terrace residents

ABOYNE – Cliff is a “certified good boy,” said Wellington Terrace recreational therapist Caitlyn Cheyne.

He visits the long-term care home every Tuesday and Wednesday, and is very popular among the residents, Cheyne notes..

The Yorkie–Shih Tzu mix will be eight in September, and has been visiting Wellington Terrace for seven years.

“Residents and staff greet him before they greet me,” Cheyne said with a laugh.

She noted Cliff’s temperament is good for the job because he loves to cuddle, and can alternate between being calm to help residents relax, and being playful to encourage them to engage.

She said he gives residents “a sense of purpose and responsibility” because they want to look after him.

“Lots of them growing up lived on farms or had their own pet cats or dogs,” and miss having animals around, Cheyne added.

Ruth Wells is one of those residents.

At the mention of Cliff’s name the 93-year-old’s face lit up, and she called Cliff over to her for some scratches behind his ears.

“I’m very fond of Cliff,” Wells told the Advertiser in an interview.

“He will hold on to you as long as you are willing to scratch his head, chest or neck.”

Wells said Cliff is very clever and learns things quickly.

“I think it’s wonderful I can have a dog in here, even for a short time,” Wells said.

“I miss my dogs, I miss my cats. So much.”

Wells added she wishes  she had “appreciated more the time I had with them.”

Access to animals is “so important, it really is,” Wells said, and visits with Cliff make her feel “like I belong, like I’ve still got a pet.”

“He makes a big difference,” she said. “I think he’s glad to be here.”

“He’s a sweetie,” Wells said.

She turned to Cliff, adding, “we can count on you.”