10/21/2026
Meet Ozzy – and his human, Jefrrel – a four-legged member of the Atria San Juan family!
As Resident Services Director, Jefrrel oversees the community’s care departments and is especially passionate about working with residents living with dementia. She says she finds joy in understanding what they’re experiencing and helping them through both the challenges and the moments of joy.
And she has Ozzy, who helps her do just that.
The three-year-old Australian shepherd and trained service dog comes to work with Jeffrel and has quickly become a familiar face around the community. When residents see him, Jeffrel says, “They just brighten up.”
Ozzy can be especially helpful when a resident is having a difficult day. Jefrrel has seen how spending time with him can shift a resident’s mood and help them move toward something positive. He also brings plenty of joy to the team – and even the community’s visiting physician makes a point of seeing Ozzy on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“I love that he brings joy not just to the residents but also to the team,” Jefrrel says.
For Jefrrel, caring for residents is about understanding the person behind the challenges and finding opportunities for connection. Sometimes, that connection has four legs and a wagging tail. 🐾
