Asti is the first Spinone in the USA to have earned the Therapy Dog International Active award.(TDIA)

Asti and his human companion Diana, tirelessly made over 50 therapy visits in the year 2002. TDIA is given out in recognition of the dog's tireless determination to visit with those in need, their unconditional love and their active volunteers who share these great dogs for the benefit of others. Asti and Diana received a bonded certificate, a medallion and a pin in recognition.

Sherwin was a natural born hunter.  He hunted birds with his German Short- Haired Pointers, as well as various other hunting dogbreeds. An illness forced Sherwin into a hospice situation.

Sherwin truly missed his dogs, as they had been at his side most of his long life. His family rarely visited him, making him all the lonelier.One fateful day, he made the acquaintance of a Therapy Dog named Asti.

Asti soon visited Sherwin on a regular basis. Sherwin really looked forward to Asti's visits. He would wait patiently at the main entrance for 10am sharp for Asti's arrival. Asti would come loping up to Sherwin and put his giant Spinone head in Sherwin's lap for many pats.

As time went on, Sherwin lost some of his mobility. He had to use a cane, a walker and then eventually a wheelchair. As Asti made his rounds to see his many patients, Sherwin became known as the Master with Retriever at his side. They would visit everyone as a real team. Sherwin would even accompany Asti during his visits to the on-site beauty shop just so he could have Asti at his side. In fact, Asti's picture had a very special place on Sherwin's dresser.

One Valentine's Day, Sherwin was not waiting at the main door. Asti made his way to Sherwin's room to see where his hunting buddy was, he stopped short to find Sherwin in bed. As he moved his giant webbed paws over to check out his friend, Asti went and put his head on Sherwin's chest. It was truly a picture of a man and his hunting dog. There seemed to be a very private conversation between them.

Once again today, Sherwin was not waiting at the door. Asti lumbered down the long hallway to Sherwin's room. The room had been emptied of all Sherwin's personal belongings. Asti sat and looked all around, bowed his head and slowly left the room. He now knew what Sherwin had known a week ago.
Bless all the Therapy Dogs.
Diana