The Healing Power of Therapy Dogs at Smith Creek Village

Therapy dogs play a vital role in enhancing the lives of our residents at Smith Creek Village Their presence offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Emotional Support: Interacting with therapy dogs can help alleviate feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression among seniors. These gentle and empathetic animals provide unconditional love and companionship, creating a sense of connection and well-being.

2. Mental Stimulation: Therapy dog visits stimulate cognitive function by encouraging residents to engage in conversation, reminisce about their own pets, and share stories. This mental stimulation can improve memory, attention, and overall cognitive abilities.

3. Social Interaction: Therapy dogs act as a catalyst for socialization among seniors. They serve as conversation starters, helping residents engage with one another and forge new connections.

Let's meet these two furry companions, Zora and Cookie from St. John Ambulance’s Therapy Dog Program. They bring immeasurable joy, comfort, and emotional support to our residents, improving their overall well-being.