Though Tellico Village resident Sandi Sack has given time to multiple service organizations over the years, volunteering with the help of her beloved rescue dog, Katie, provided a special experience.
The human and dog duo have been volunteering for the past two years with the Knoxville nonprofit, Human-Animal Bond in Tennessee, by cheering up assisted living residents and offering patience and encouragement to children learning to read. HABIT, comprised of community volunteers in collaboration with the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine and private vet practitioners, explores the human-animal bond and sponsors pet visitation programs to nursing homes, retirement centers, mental health centers, residences for children with special needs and schools to assist children learning to read.