Pet Therapy

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Pet Therapy is a type of therapy that incorporates animals in the treatment of a person; especially residents in Senior Living environments. The goal of using animals as a treatment option is to improve the person’s social, emotional, and cognitive functioning and reduce passivity. Animals can be helpful in motivating the residents to be active mentally and physically, keeping their minds sharp and bodies healthy. Therapists or visitors who bring animals into their sessions in Senior Living are often viewed as less threatening, which increases the relationship between the therapist/visitor and residents. Pet Therapy provides residents with opportunities to have close physical contact with the animals warm bodies, feeling heartbeats, caress soft skins and coats, notice breathing, and giving hugs. Pet Therapists also plan activities for residents that need physical movement. These planned tasks include petting the animal, walking the animal, and grooming the animal. Animals provide a sense of meaning and belonging to these patients and offer something to look forward to during their long days.

We are looking for a variety of furry (and non furry!) visitors. If you have a well behaved pet (who is current on all vaccinations) and you are interested in bringing them into the facilty for 30 minute to an hour, at least once a month please contact me for more details!