Bear, a 15-year-old Pomeranian-Chihuahua mix, will be honored Friday with a special retirement celebration recognizing nearly a decade spent making his rounds through Levindale’s halls, visiting residents, attending events, and providing a furry source of friendship to those around him.

Bear first began coming to Levindale nine years ago with his owner, Therapeutic Recreation Manager Amanda Wittlesberger, when she was working as a floor therapist. Bear would accompany her during patient treatments and, when Wittlesberger later became a recreation manager, he naturally became her sidekick at resident activities and throughout the facility.

According to Wittlesberger, Bear never needed formal training for his role. He simply loved people and loved coming to work. Residents came to look forward to his visits, particularly when Bear would curl up beside them for a nap or stop by in search of a treat. Staff regularly heard residents asking, “How’s Bear? Is he here today?”

Apparently, the feeling was mutual. Bear enjoyed going to Levindale so much that on days when he was supposed to stay home, he would sometimes try to sneak out the door and jump into the car.

As Bear grew older, he eventually lost his vision and hearing. Yet after so many years at Levindale, he still knows the facility well enough to navigate its familiar halls, always with what Wittlesberger describes as a smile on his face.

Levindale is a pet-friendly community that embraces the Eden Alternative philosophy, which recognizes the role animals and companionship can play in improving the quality of life for older adults. For residents and staff who have grown accustomed to Bear’s presence, his retirement is understandably bittersweet.

Fortunately, Bear has already begun training his successor, at least informally. His “little (big) sister,” Magnolia, affectionately known as Maggie, is an 8-month-old Great Pyrenees who recently began accompanying Wittlesberger to work. Maggie will be on hand to help celebrate Bear as he passes the torch to the next generation.

Bear’s retirement party will take place Friday, August 28, at 3:00 p.m. at Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital, 2434 W. Belvedere Avenue in Baltimore. The celebration will feature some of Bear’s favorite foods, including beef hot dogs, popcorn, and chips, along with dog-themed decorations, a handmade doghouse, and a special portrait honoring his nine years of service.

Please contact Theodosha Hayes, 443-425-6324, [email protected] if you plan to attend.