Whistlestop APRIL 2011
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E PRESS The Leading Information Resource for Marin's Active Aging Movement
A Pet Can Be Perfect Cure For Loneliness; San Rafael Man Finds New Best Friend b y VA L E R I E B O W M A N
Rocky Packard page 4
NEW COLUMN!
© Photo by Terry Scussel
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arry Thorstenberg hadn’t had a dog since he was a child, but he was lonely and he decided having a dog would give him the companionship he was wanting. Larry retired after a career of playing English horn and oboe in the Boston Symphony and moved to Marin County about 13 years ago. With the help of a friend, Larry, now in his 80s, found a five-year-old black Lab mix through a rescue organization called Hound Haven Hope Rescue (lauriewhoof@ yahoo.com), which fosters and places dogs who are at risk of being euthanized. It didn’t take Chipper and Larry long to bond and Larry says, “I value his steady companionship. If I had a roommate, he wouldn’t be here all the time, but Chipper is.” He adds that he enjoys taking care of him and he knows Chipper needs him and appreciates him. “It’s a love relationship of sorts.” He recommends that anyone who is living alone
Larry Thorstenberg and his faithful companion Chipper and wants company consider adopting a dog. They are also a good reason to get out of the house and get some exercise. Larry says there are expenses involved with having a dog, but it’s well worth it to him. He also highly recommends that new owners arrange a trial period to see if they are a
The Bird's Side of Marin page 11
good fit with the pet. And while this friendly black Lab has turned out to be perfect for Larry, cats and other pets can also provide comfort and mutual caring. ✦
Humane Society, Whistlestop Team Up — See Page 12 Grand Mom Princess is Just That page 14