Sensenbrenner Hospital in Kapuskasing is recruiting four-legged volunteers for a new pet therapy program in its long term care wing.
“We’re looking specifically for dogs,” says occupational therapy assistant Danielle Gauthier.
The dog’s humans would bring them in to the hospital to spend some quality time with the patients.
“It’s just to help with the depression, anxiety, dementia, Gauthier notes. “It’s just a soothing part of their day.”
It has been scientifically proven that interaction with a pet can help one’s mental, emotional and physical health.
“A lot of people do have pets of their own, so I think most people can relate to this as being a positive effect in their life,” Gauthier remarks.
A dog will need updated vaccinations and a certificate from its vet, saying that it’s calm and good in social situations.
For more details, contact Danielle Gauthier at 705-337-4019 or via email at [email protected] .
