Dogs help at Newport News health care center

Health care is going to the dogs.

Take Ekko, for example.

This outgoing golden retriever mix has been helping out at Riverside Rehabilitation Center in Newport News.

Patients working on mobility and balance now can walk with the furry physical therapy companion.

"It's a more challenging task than just walking down the hallway by themselves, because now the patients have something to hold onto that brings them joy and makes it more meaningful to walk farther," said Wendy Bunting, the center's therapy director.

Donated in June by Saint Francis Service Dogs of Roanoke, Ekko also lends her talents to occupational, speech and recreational therapy. She puts in a 40-hour week and likes it. "She's always anxious to get back to work on Mondays," Bunting said.

Two of her canine brethren also are preparing for careers in care.

Joanie and Godrick, 10-week-old black Labrador puppies, are moving into Atlantic Shores retirement community in Virginia Beach for the early stages of their training with Guiding Eyes for the Blind.

Projects on tap? Behavioral training, socialization and educational engagements.

After that? Yappy hour.