Among the many volunteers at this year’s Vermont Special Olympics were Peter Hoffman and his dog, Smudge, a Pet Partners registered therapy team. Each year, Peter and Smudge brave the cold to bring smiles to those participating and sharing in the excitement of the Winter Games. Living in Manhattan during the tragic events of September 11, 2001, Peter began volunteering at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital, where he soon realized how impactful the work of therapy animals was, furthering his desire to volunteer more. Through his experience with the Vermont Special Olympics, Peter has been selected as a volunteer for the 2017 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria in late march. Smudge will unfortunately have to sit this one out.  “I’m proud of what I do, proud of what the dogs do. I think it’s a do-good way to volunteer.” – Peter Hoffman

We are so fortunate to see the work of handlers and therapy pets in their communities. Thank you to Peter and Smudge for all they do and good luck in Austria!

Story provided by Peter Hoffman