Tipton has always been "fascinated with the healing touch of animals." In years past as a case manager in an outpatient drug treatment facility, one of her tasks entailed facilitating a children's group for kids affected by a loved one with a drug problem. "I had an awesome boss who permitted me to use my pets, such as a hamster or a rabbit, in the group. I was just amazed by the therapeutic benefits I observed due to their interaction with the animals."

"A neat thing for me also is that I am able to combine two very special gifts passed down to me from my parents. The first is my faith, and the second is my desire to help others through my love of animals and nature," Tipton said.

So she takes her "pets-inspiring- people" visitation program on the road regularly to visit places like Dorothy Love Retirement Community and various adult day care services, special schools and rehab centers throughout Shelby and Miami Counties.

And she uses her affectionate, healthy, screened pets for individualized visits. Critters such as a dog, cat, a rabbit ("one of the most popular animals"), or even miniature horses, provide inspirational visits, either one-on-one or in small group settings.

The Caring Critters program has only been offered since January. "I am so pleased that we are serving the elderly and at-risk youth, as well as those with developmental disabilities. Without the enthusiasm and cooperation of activity directors, teachers and therapists, these therapeutic pet visits would not be possible," she added.

The pet visits are tailor-made to meet the needs and desires of the staff and recipients. When visiting with a small group, Tilton shares an animal story with them. Within the story, there is always an inspirational message.

She also gives out small gifts to residents and clients on special holidays. "They are simple gifts like a fresh flower or stuffed animal, but they can really mean a lot to the people I visit," she said.

Tilton likes to quote Helen Keller, who said, "The best things in life you don't see with your eyes, you see with your heart."