It’s a well-known fact that many believe a dog is man’s best friend.
But even more than the simple joy of a wagging tail is the physical and mental benefits of canine companionship.
PAWS for People — a non-profit Pet-Assisted Visitation Volunteer Service with a mission of providing therapeutic pet visits to elders, children and people with disabilities — will bring their program to Cardinal Village Senior Living in Washington Township beginning in January.
Cardinal Village Marketing Director Karen Dixon said the senior center is excited to be working with PAWS.
“We are thrilled to provide pet therapy to our residents at Cardinal Village,” said Dixon. “Cardinal Village is always looking for ways to enhance the quality of life of our residents and this new pet therapy program will provide them with a different type of interaction during the day and the dogs can make them feel safe and comfortable, while improving their overall health. We are excited to start this program in the New Year and we hope all the residents enjoy it.”
Lynn Robinson, Executive Director of PAWS, said therapy dogs are different than everyday, family pets, noting that they can bring out the best in people and can interact the same way people do.
“There’s a special bond between people and dogs,” said Robinson. “When people are around dogs, they lose their inhibitions, they relax, and it’s a trusting relationship. Our pets provide support to people who may need it. The dogs give people attention and they listen to what people have to say.”
Robinson said studies have shown that pet therapy benefits participants both physically and mentally, and that simply petting a dog can cause relaxation and elevate the mood.
“Pet therapy can also lower anxiety, provide comfort and reduce loneliness by providing companionship,” Robinson said. “Feelings of isolation and alienation can be decreased, emotional outlook is brightened and mental stimulation is increased.”
Elderly patients are known to sit up, smile and talk to therapy animals.
“They will use their speaking skills and move more as they play catch with the dogs,” Robinson said. “It also gives the residents something to talk about throughout the day, telling their families how enjoyable it was to have a dog there.”
In addition to making the residents happy, pet therapy lowers blood pressure, eases anxiety and decreases overall pain.
“Our animals go through regular and specialized training in order to be used for therapy,” Robinson said. “Our dogs provide completion in a person’s life. They are fun, amusing, adorable and they form emotional ties to the residents. We are so glad to bring pet therapy to Cardinal Village and we hope the residents can benefit from these services for better physical and mental health.”
For more information about PAWS, visit www.pawsforpeople.org.
Contact staff writer Kelly Roncace at 856-686-3647 or kroncace@southjerseymedia.com.