Garden Spot Village Welcomes UDS-Certified Dog Casey
Written by Sharon Sparkes
In a bold and innovative step to combat loneliness and social isolation, Garden Spot Village has become the only retirement community in southeastern Pennsylvania to have a United Disabilities Services (UDS) certified community dog. While Garden Spot Village is well-known for its vibrant lifestyle offerings and opportunities for connection, the community recognized that various circumstances—such as physical limitations, grief or other factors—can sometimes lead to self-isolation for residents.
The challenge of loneliness and social isolation is one that social workers in the resident advocacy team have been working to address in creative ways. With the national conversation often focused on pharmaceutical solutions to health issues, social worker Kasey Stoltzfus had another idea: why not explore nonpharmaceutical methods to foster human connection and emotional well-being? Kasey approached her supervisor Sherilyn Lapp, with the proposal to introduce a UDS-certified community dog. This idea was welcomed with open arms.
The introduction of a community dog is a perfect example of Garden Spot Village’s commitment to innovation, particularly when it aligns with their mission of cultivating a vibrant, active and connected community. The community has never shied away from forward-thinking approaches, and this initiative continues that tradition.
To bring the idea to fruition, three social workers, including Kasey, attended a weeklong UDS training program, where they were taught 80 commands for working with service dogs. These commands are designed to enable the dog to not only offer companionship but also to assist with practical tasks, such as retrieving items, opening doors and providing physical support.
After the intensive training, the team was introduced to Casey, the dog who would soon become an integral part of the Garden Spot Village family. The social workers and Casey spent less than two months training together in community, practicing commands and getting acclimated to their environment. During this time, Casey quickly became a familiar and beloved presence around the village.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived: Casey and his handlers were tested to see if they had mastered the necessary skills to pass UDS certification. When they succeeded, there was a palpable sense of relief and joy. Residents and staff alike celebrated this milestone, culminating in a special ceremony held in the Garden Spot Village chapel on August 30. During the event, Casey received his official purple vest, signifying his status as an official UDS community dog.
With his new role, Casey now offers companionship, emotional support and practical assistance to residents. He is trained to help with 80 specific tasks, making him not only a comforting presence but also a functional support for residents who may struggle with physical or emotional challenges. For those who may be feeling isolated, Casey provides a way to connect with others and feel a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
Garden Spot Village’s innovative approach to using a UDS-certified dog as part of their care model underscores their commitment to holistic, person-centered care. As the first retirement community to adopt such a program, Garden Spot is once again proving that they are a leader in creating environments where older adults can thrive—physically, emotionally, and socially.
The presence of Casey in the community has already had a significant impact, and it is a testament to the power of thinking outside the box. As Garden Spot Village continues to pioneer new ways to support its residents, Casey’s role will surely serve as a model for other communities looking to enhance the quality of life for their residents.