Don Packard and Sailor

Photo caption: Don Packard and Sailor, an Australian Shepherd, bring smiles and comfort to patients at YRMC as part of the hospital’s Pets Are Warm Support (PAWS) program.
by Heidi Dahms Foster, Communications Relations Coordinator, Town of Prescott Valley
Sailor is a 9-year-old Australian Shepherd who was the only puppy in his litter. He learned early manners by playing with his favorite kitten Riley. Sailor went to live with Prescott Valley resident and Town Council member Don Packard, who has a heart for all people who need someone to care for them, but especially for veterans. Don and Sailor trained and passed their testing to be a therapy dog team, gaining access to the Veterans Administration Center, various hospice and care homes, and Yavapai Regional Medical Center, where they can enter the most complex situations. This team has visited and brought comfort and joy to hundreds of patients through their caring and teamwork.