Ginger, Kora and Hudson, from left, relax in the shade during a recent Dog Days gathering at Marbella Senior Living in Marysville.

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Residents of Marbella Senior Living in Marysville enjoyed the Dog Days of Summer on Thursday, July 16, when community members stopped by with their friendly canine companions.

The program, known as "Dog Days," launched last month under the leadership of Jennifer Jelavich, a dog owner and organizational lead for Blue Zones Yuba-Sutter.

"We started Dog Days last month in honor of our dog Pinky, who passed away," Jelavich said. "She came here and had such a great time visiting the residents that we promised her we'd come back. This is our way of keeping that promise."

Jennifer Jelavich, right, gives treats to two miniature Australian shepherds as a Marbella Senior Living resident visits with the dogs.

Jelavich's newest companion is Hudson, a rescue dog previously used by a shelter to help socialize other animals because of his easygoing temperament. Hudson, a large Great Pyrenees-shepherd mix, was joined by several smaller companions: Heidi and Kora, two miniature Australian shepherds; Brandy, a cocker spaniel; and Ginger, a Chihuahua mix.

As the dogs played and relaxed in the shade of Marbella's backyard, they were joined by visitors from the AMFC Day Program, a local support program for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Robert, one of the program's participants, was especially excited to see the dogs. His favorite was Hudson.

Participants from the AMFC Day Program visit with Hudson during a recent Dog Days gathering at Marbella Senior Living in Marysville.

"I grew up on a farm with lots of dogs," Robert said. "My favorite dog is the Lassie dog, like from that TV show. We had a collie, and Hudson reminds me of that."

After spending time outdoors, the dogs made their way inside to greet more of Marbella's residents. Following plenty of pets, treats and hugs, it was time for the canine visitors to head home.

Jelavich said she plans to host another Dog Days event at Marbella at 1 p.m. Sept. 6. Community members are welcome to bring their dogs as long as the animals are friendly and behave well around people and other pets.

"Even if you don't have a dog, you are welcome to come and enjoy some dog time," Jelavich said.

Brandy, a cocker spaniel who lives at Marbella Senior Living with her owner, poses beside the flowers during a recent Dog Days gathering in Marysville.