August 14, 2025 —Barclay Friends will host an early celebration of National Dog Day on August 21 from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. featuring adoptable dogs from Lamancha Animal Rescue in Bartram Way.
The event will include planned visits with residents of Barclay Friends’ Bartram and Goshen Memory Care centers to bring joy, comfort and connection to the older adult residents of the senior living and memory care community and guests.
The celebration underscores Barclay Friends’ commitment to meaningful engagement and well-being through intergenerational and animal-assisted interactions. Guests will be welcomed with light refreshments and receive complimentary Barclay Friends dog bandanas as keepsakes. Ariel, the organization’s Chief Cuddle Officer*, is expected to greet attendees and add to the festivities, pending availability.
The organization encourages local neighbors and partners to attend, meet the rescue dogs, and learn more about the benefits of pet companionship in senior living environments.
The event will take place on the Barclay Friends campus, with Lamancha Animal Rescue showcasing dogs available for adoption and facilitating introductions. Staff will also guide visits within Bartram Way and Goshen Memory Care to ensure a safe, calming experience tailored to residents’ needs.
Members of the media are invited to cover the celebration, speak with Barclay Friends team members about the role of purposeful programming in resident life, and capture video and photos of Barclay Friends residents (identified by staff members)interacting with adorable dogs in celebration of National Dog Day.
*Ariel – Chief Cuddle Officer
There is an extra dose of warmth at Barclay Fridays thanks to Ariel, a 5-and-a-half-year-old beagle whose gentle demeanor and love for treats have captured the hearts of residents, families and staff alike. Known to many as the Chief Cuddle Officer, Ariel’s presence embodies the community’s neighborly and inviting spirit.
Ariel’s story is as heartwarming as her visits. Born into the Ardrossan Beagles in Malvern, Pennsylvania, Ariel prioritized companionship over countryside chases, a trait that would eventually lead her to a life dedicated to spreading joy.
“She was always more interested in getting attention than in chasing rabbits,” recalls Crissy Bowden, Senior Director of Philanthropy at Barclay Friends and Ariel’s companion.
After being adopted three years ago, Ariel has seamlessly become a source of daily comfort and connection, a role she has expanded since joining Crissy at Barclay Friends earlier this year.Visits with Residents Every Friday
Now, every Friday, Ariel makes special trips to the community, where her wagging tail is met with smiles, laughter and fond memories of beloved pets from residents’ pasts. During one memorable visit to Anne’s Garden, a beautiful garden on the property, Ariel gathered with residents as they shared cherished stories of their own four-legged friends.
“She instantly brings a smile to everyone who sees her,” says Crissy.
For the residents of Barclay Friends, Ariel is more than just a visitor; she’s a reminder that the simplest gestures can make everyone feel at home. A resident perfectly encapsulated her impact, saying, “Ariel brings me joy and makes me happy every time she’s here.”
Plans for Ariel’s Friday visits continue as part of Barclay Friends’ commitment to fostering warmth, connection, and community.
Pet-Friendly Community
Barclay Friends is no stranger to the joy and comfort that animals bring. With some residents able to care for pets in their residence, visits from family pets, community partners, such as Paws for People, and now Ariel’s regular appearances, the community solidifies its dedication to creating connections through simple, meaningful moments.
CEO Maria Santangelo adds, “We love having Ariel here. Barclay Friends is a pet-friendly community, and her presence reinforces our mission to bring joy and companionship to our residents.”
While Ariel’s days of sporting with the Ardrossan Beagle Club are less frequent now, she occasionally reunites with her littermates for group walks, staying connected to her beagle roots.
Fun fact: Ariel hails from a family of champions, with her parents Beauty and Bob earning top honors at the Bryn Mawr Hound Show.