On May 29, the Chau-tauqua Nursing and Rehab-ilitation Center welcomed a new member to the family: Abby. Abby is a Portuguese Water Dog acquired from the Doceu Kennel of Grand Island. Abby’s name was voted on by the residents, their families and the staff of the nursing home. Abby’s breed is hypoallergenic and does not shed, so she is safe for those who are allergic to dogs.

Abby was born on March 31, and is one of 11 puppies. She has completed professional temperament assessment and was chosen as a good fit for the facility. During her puppyhood, Abby will come to work during the day and go home in the evening with Paige Brown, the assistant director of activities. Abby will continue this schedule until she is fully trained and familiar with the staff and residents.

Abby will attend Perfect Pooch Dog Training in Brocton. First, she will go through training that includes bite inhibition, basic commands, socialization and leash training. She will then take the puppy S.T.A.R. test in order to move to the obedience training, then advance onto the Canine Good Citizen class. After a successful completion of the Canine Good Citizen class, Abby will be ready to start the advanced training to become a certified therapy dog.

“The joy on the residents’ faces is just so heartwarming,” Administrator Margaret Mary Wagner, said. “If you think about it, when coming into a nursing home for long-term care, some of our residents have had to say good-bye to their independence, their homes and in some cases their pets.

“Having Abby here helps with their transition and has been a very positive experience.”

The Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, located on Temple Road in Dunkirk, is a 216-bed skilled nursing facility specializing in short-term rehabilitation and long-term health care.

The residents and staff welcome community participation and events and many volunteering opportunities are available. Individuals interested in volunteering should contact the activities department at 366-6400.