It probably comes as no surprise that pets make people feel happy. When you look at a cute dog or a playful kitten, you will probably smile and maybe even laugh.
But pets also are good for the health of their human counterparts, especially those suffering a serious illness or seniors living in assisted living facilities, such as Country Home Assisted Living.
Researchers and health-care professionals often site multiple examples of how pets help the elderly, both physically and mentally. For example, just 15 minutes of bonding with a pet can prompt the release of a number of “feel-good” hormones, including serotonin.
Pets can also create a setting where individuals who have been unresponsive to other therapies will brighten up and interact with the animal, giving them new meaning and improving their overall well-being.
In nursing homes, dogs have been credited with reducing residents’ need for medications, as well as improving their vital signs, physical functioning, and increasing engagement and social interaction. This can all lead to less loneliness, boredom, agitation and depression.
Pet therapy, also known as Animal Assisted Therapy, has been a way of life for Country Home for 11 years, when Romeo, a cute little Bichon Frise was brought in at 10 weeks old.
Romeo is a natural therapy dog who loves women and wants to be with them all of the time.
According to one of Country Home’s previous residents, “that little dog knew I wasn’t feeling good and stayed with me and would not leave my side.”
In his younger years, Romeo also provided quite a bit of entertainment for the assisted living facility’s residents. Among his many antics were acting like a circus clown and dancing on his hind legs in exchange for a piece of cheese.
Pets can also give seniors added incentive to stay healthy and exercise by giving them a feeling of being “needed.” At Country Home, a 13-year-old Yorkie gives the facility’s residents a purpose. Because the Yorkie is hard of hearing and can’t see very well, the residents look after her and care for her as if she were a baby.
There’s also a 3-year-old cat, Priscilla, who is quite playful and not like an ordinary cat. She provides plenty of entertainment and mental stimulation as she playfully challenges the two dogs, either by boxing with them or pouncing on their backs.
Again, she is unusual for a cat. She is always in Country Home’s common area, sharing her playful attitude with everyone.
So Animal Assisted Therapy is alive and well at Country Home. Just ask any of the residents how much they enjoy their time with the animals.