Henry has always been a curious dog. (Submitted photo/Andy Dinniman)
WEST CHESTER — Former state Sen. Andy Dinniman and his poodle Henry went everywhere together.
The two often traveled together as a team, from the halls of the Capitol in Harrisburg to public meetings in Chester County.
Dinniman still calls Henry “the county dog.” I miss Henry. When Mr. Dinniman passed away in 2014, he received more than 1,000 condolence cards, letters and emails.
In memory of Henry, Dinniman found a way to give back. Henry's Helping Paws of Chester County is a way to provide pet food and veterinary care to homebound seniors.
Dinniman noticed that many seniors receiving Meals on Wheels didn't finish everything they were served.
“We found some way to remember Henry as we delivered meals to seniors on wheels,” Dinniman said in a recent interview at the restaurant. “Many elderly people who are reclusive give half of their meals to dogs and cats.''
These meal-in-place dinners are a lifeline for many seniors who can't go out or can't afford to eat healthy meals every day.
“Imagine what would happen if you were to lose a beloved pet or friend,” Dinniman and program co-founder James Orsini of the Pennsylvania Veterinary School's New Bolton Center wrote in the letter. Here he writes:
“For many people, it's the only living thing they come into contact with,” Dinniman said. “Many people are separated from their families.”
Bill Pierce is an animal lover and Executive Director of Brandywine Valley Active Aging.
“I grew up in a house where we always had pets, so I continued that tradition even when I lived alone,” Pierce said. “I am fortunate to bring my dog Westin to work every day and see the happiness he brings to those who visit our campus.
“I know that Henry’s Helping Paws and Pet Food Pantry contribute to the well-being of the seniors we serve, and I am committed to championing this important cause. I personally thank the senator and his wife for that.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pets “increase opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities, contribute to improved cognitive function, and increase opportunities for socialization.” Among other things, pets can: Makes the owner feel needed. Helps owners build connections with other people. And it helps reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024, 42 people visited the pet food pantry and over 1,250 pounds of pet food was distributed.
Currently, pet food is delivered separately from the full meal to avoid some people having to make bulk deliveries. Henry's Helping Paws is sophisticated enough to provide the right diet for specific pets, from puppies to animals with kidney problems.
Dog and cat food will also be sent to senior centers.Brandywine Active Seniors was the first to implement this program
center. He also donated $15,000 to the Lutheran Foundation of South Chester County.
“We quickly realized that having a pet is a very important part of seniors' lives,” Dinniman said. “It’s more than a recluse.”
The program is diverse and Dinniman would like to expand to other counties. On Pet Health Day, all pet owners can receive health checkups and pet care from veterinarians. Volunteer veterinarians will provide services.
The program provides elderly shut-ins with a $250 voucher and a traveling veterinarian while they receive treatment at home.
Donna Plack receives pet food for her cat, “Daisy.” She said this assistance would be a real help to many people who have pet companions. She works at Brandywine Active Senior Center.
“Rather than budgeting, it helps to know that there is a cat food that is suitable for your pet,” she said.
In addition to playing cards and games, Sherry Wills works at the Brandywine Active Senior Center. She is fed by her dog KK and cat Sebastian.
“It was cheaper to give them my food,” she said. “This is really helpful.”
The program costs money. Dinniman established a foundation through the Chester County Community Foundation in hopes of raising $500,000 to ensure the program's permanent operation.
“It may take several years, but I am confident that we will achieve this goal,” Dinniman said.
So what did Henry teach Master Dinniman?
“He was my best friend,” Dinniman said. “Through Henry, I learned something incredible.”
Dinniman was taught the concept of forgiveness, being kind to those who are down, giving second chances, not remaining angry, and smiling while wishing people well.
“If you have a dog or a cat, you know what I'm talking about,” he said. “All seniors benefit from their pets in terms of mental and physical health.
“This was the right way to honor Henry's memory after we discovered that isolated seniors who felt the same way about dogs and cats were devoting half of their only meal of the day to their pets.” Dinniman said.
“There are dog and cat loving groups in both parties in the county,” Dinniman said. “It seems like pets are the only thing that brings people together in this country anymore.
“There are certain issues of every persuasion in Chester County that go beyond politics. It's like open space, and it doesn't matter if you're R, D, I, young or old.”
If you are interested in helping, please make your check payable to “Henry’s Helping Paws of Chester County Fund.”
Mail to: Chester County Community Foundation, The Lincoln Building, 26 W. Market St., West Chester PA 19382.
On the Internet, visit chescocf.org/fund/henrys-helping-paws-fund/.
