Staff writer
About 14 volunteers and their dogs joined Victor Buckner, in spreading holiday cheer to residents of Marion’s long-term care facilities.
The group braved chilly temperatures in the 30s to show off their pets to residents who might miss theirs — or who just need some cheering up.
Kelly Shaft petted his dogs Gordon and Ben as they shivered under their sweaters.
“We just heard about this and just thought it would be really cool to do for people,” he said.
Bobby Griese’s rescued Plott hound Rusty tugged at his leash, eager to get started.
“Oh, it’s all right,” Griese said petting the hound. “He’s a good boy.”
Nanette Lowry tucked a tiny Yorkshire terrier named Buffy into her coat to keep the pup warm as she held him up to the window of Marion Assisted Living for a smiling resident.
“Merry Christmas,” she said.
Buckner, founder of nonprofit Wags and Wiggles Furever, was pleasantly surprised with the number of owners who showed up.
“It was good to see the turnout and even better to see the smiling faces of the residents,” he said.