If you have a therapy dog and are willing to share your furry friend’s unconditional love, contact Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey (CVCJ).  CVCJ’s Caregiver Canines® Program needs therapy dog teams in the Ocean County area who are looking for a rewarding volunteer experience.  “Many of our seniors would love to have a dog but they are unable to care for one properly.  Our handlers feel such joy sharing their special dog with a fellow dog lover.” said Danielle Maley, program coordinator.   All dogs in the program are certified for pet therapy and are matched with a homebound senior living in their area.  “These visits are flexible and we work within the handler’s schedule to make it convenient for everyone.  The dogs and handlers enjoy it as much as the seniors they are visiting.” said Maley. For more information about the Caregiver Canines® program, contact Danielle Maley at CVCJ, 732-505-2273 ext. 202 or email at daniellem@caregivervolunteers.org

CVCJ is a non-profit interfaith agency whose mission is to assist the frail and homebound elderly with everyday tasks enabling them to remain independent in their own homes. All services provided are free.  Over 1000 volunteers assist more than 2000 senior citizens each month with transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping, relief for Alzheimer’s disease caregivers, reassuring telephone calls, friendly/pet visits. CVCJ has two locations serving Ocean County: Whiting, 30 Lacey Road, and Toms River, 253 Chestnut Street. For more information and to learn about volunteer opportunities, call Mary O. Malagiere, 732-505-2273 ext. 211, visit www.caregivervolunteers.org or like them on Facebook – facebook.com/caregivervolunteers.