Rocky the Grief Therapy Dog

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Summary:
We are delighted today to learn about Rocky, a goldendoodle who serves at Bartolomeo & Perotto Funeral Home in Rochester, NY. Rocky charmed his owner, Mike Perotto, into speaking with us and we invite you to listen in.

Episode Notes:
Dogs have an incredible way of breaking through those invisible barriers that hold people back when it comes to comforting those in pain. Much training was involved, but Rocky is often the first to identify the griever most in need of comfort and, will even accompany a reluctant child to the kneeler and assume a prayerful position. Listen to Mike Perotto’s recollections of Rocky’s successes and the immeasurable comfort a therapy dog can offer the bereaved.

Rocky

Rocky was born June 2015 and resides in Greece (suburb of Rochester, NY) with his “father” Mike, and “brothers” Michael & Jon. At home he enjoys playing tug of war and watching the critters in the back yard, though he is not a squirrel fan. He loves to sit on the lap of anyone who thinks they are going to watch TV and actually watches the TV himself. Like other dogs, he enjoys playing fetch and is always under foot.

Rocky’s goal at work everyday is simple. He enjoys bringing comfort to those who have lost a loved one. He has quickly become the most popular member of the Bartolomeo & Perotto team. He has been “working” at the funeral home since 2016 and is more well known than any other staff member.

Michael Perotto, President, Funeral Director since 1988

Mike attended Canton College for Mortuary Science. After completing his residency he earned his funeral director’s license. Since then, he’s been growing the business with his dad, Phil, and brother, David. A large part of his commitment to improving funeral care is being involved in industry-related organizations. He has previously served as president of both the Preferred Funeral Directors International (PDFI) and the local Rochester Genesee Valley Funeral Directors Association. Mike is currently serving as a board member for the Greece Rotary.

Mike has enjoyed watching his own sons, Michael and Jon grow into young men who are now creating their own distinct futures. Mike’s third “son,” Rocky is the family’s faithful companion. Aside from keeping lacrosse stats on the sidelines of his son’s games over the years, Mike is true outdoorsman who loves to hunt, hike, fish, or just sit around a campfire with friends. When he gets some spare time, he likes cooking and perfecting timing and flavors with his food smoker.

“It is our commitment to the Bartolomeo legacy, reaching back to 1922, that motivates us to continue to grow and improve.”

Contact: 

www.asiliveandgrieve.com 

[email protected] 

Facebook:  As I Live and Grieve 

Instagram:  @asiliveandgrieve 

To Reach Mike Perotto: 

Website: www.bartolomeo.com   

Email:   [email protected] 

Credits: 

Music by Kevin MacLeod 

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Copyright 2020, by As I Live and Grieve

The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.