Nursing home and senior living visits

A calm, happy hour with a three-legged dog for residents, families and the staff who care for them.

At a glance

Audience: Residents, visiting families and staff
Settings: Activity room, lounge, dining room or resident rooms
Length: 30 to 45 minute group visit, or room-to-room visits your staff schedules
Team: Russ L'HommeDieu, DPT, and Karen L'HommeDieu, LMSW, with Daisy
Cost: Free or donation-based in Tampa Bay

1
Before
We complete your volunteer or pet visitation steps and confirm the space, time and residents who want a visit.
2
Arrival
Check in, hand hygiene, and a quick huddle with your activities or nursing contact.
3
Group visit
Meet Daisy, hear how she adapted on three legs, and time to pet her for anyone who wants to.
4
Room visits
Short stops with residents who cannot join the group, in the order your staff chooses.
5
Wrap up
Hand hygiene and a quick debrief with your team.

Group visit in the activity room or lounge.
Room-to-room visits for residents who cannot gather.
Family story time: a Daisy book read aloud for residents and visiting grandchildren.
Staff wellness visit: a short decompression stop for nurses, aides and therapists.

Share these with your class or guests ahead of time. Get the Here Comes Daisy lyrics

A guided, step-by-step drawing session. Every child leaves with their own Daisy, three legs and all.

Kids design a Daisy button and press it themselves, with a little help. A crowd favorite at events.

What if a resident is nervous around dogs?

Daisy stays leashed, residents can watch from a distance, and touching her is always optional.

Can grandchildren join the visit?

Yes. Family story time works well on weekends or holidays when families come to visit.