The AUA Annual Meeting in Chicago – Who Let the Dogs In?

Things are About to Get Hectic

The annual meeting of the American Urological Association is about to begin in Chicago, Illinois. This event – which draws urologists from around the world – is fast-paced and filled with an almost overwhelming number of presentations, poster sessions, and other educational events. It is a fantastic place to learn from, and network with, the leaders in urology. But being away from home takes its toll, and after several days, all the conference activity can become exhausting.

Urology Care Foundation to the Rescue

One of the many things I love about the Urology Care Foundation is how aware and responsive it is to the needs of urology patients and physicians. Recognizing that the annual meeting can at times be stressful, this year, our foundation is trying something new. UCF has partnered with the Chicago-based Canine Therapy Corps to bring therapy dogs to this years’s AUA.

Volunteers and dogs from the Canine Therapy Corps serve in many capacities throughout the Chicago area.

Who can resist this face?

This week, we are fortunate to have these animals and their handlers help us with stress relief at our conference. Volunteers and their dogs, which are different everyday, will be available for petting and handshakes at the Urology Care Foundation booth at the following times.

• Josh Walsman and Buddy: Friday, May 3rd, 9-11 a.m.
• Hunter Johnston and Georgia: Friday, May 3rd, 2-4 p.m.
• Mallory Kirkley and Bet: Saturday, May 4th, 9-11 a.m.
• Rosario Ferreira and Luna: Saturday, May 4th, 3-5 p.m.
• Becky Bennett and Jae: Sunday, May 5th, 9-11 a.m.

Shaking Hands

“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.”

– Josh Billings (aka Henry Wheeler Shaw, humorist and lecturer)

Urology Care Foundation President Dr. Harris M. Nagler and I got to meet one the dogs, Ash, just prior to the official start of the meeting. It wasn’t long before this wonderful ball of fur had us in the palm of her hand (or maybe, in this case, I should say paw).

Paying it Forward, Giving it Back

As the conference begins, I encourage you to visit us at the Urology Care Foundation booth, talk with the staff about what the foundation can do for you and your patients, meet the dogs, and take a break.

As a way of saying thank you to our furry friends, the Urology Care Foundation has a special offer. For every $10 you donate to the foundation, the foundation will donate $2 to the Canine Therapy Corps. You can donate at either the foundation booth.

I truly hope you enjoy meeting the dogs as much as I have, and I look forward to seeing you at the booth!