Published Date - July 2024 | Author - Grace Russell
How Peps The Dog Brings Joy To Cherry Tree House
At Cherry Tree House, we have the immense joy of welcoming Peps, a ‘Pets as Therapy’ (PAT) dog, along with his wonderful owner, Claire, every week. Peps is a resilient and loving dog who was rescued from Egypt and has been blind since birth. He has become a beloved figure in our care home and his visits are a highlight for our residents, staff, and families.
Peps and the PAT Program
Pets As Therapy (PAT) is a national charity dedicated to enhancing the health and wellbeing of people across the UK through the companionship of animals. Volunteers like Claire generously donate their time to bring their pets to hospitals, hospices, residential homes, schools, prisons, and other establishments across the UK. The impact of these wholesome visits is nothing short of amazing.
Emotional Support
Regular visits from Peps provide immense emotional support to our residents. The simple act of petting a dog can melt away feelings of loneliness and isolation, lifting moods and bringing smiles to their faces. Peps has a special way of alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety, spreading joy wherever he goes.
Physical Health
Did you know that petting a dog can lower blood pressure and reduce stress? Peps encourages our residents to engage in physical activities, whether it’s a gentle walk or a playful interaction. His presence acts as a delightful distraction from chronic pain and discomfort, promoting overall physical wellbeing.
Cognitive Benefits
Interacting with a dog stimulates the mind, sparks conversations, memory recall, and cognitive engagement. When Peps is around, our residents are more likely to chat with each other and with our staff, sharing stories of their own beloved pets growing up and into their adult lives.
Therapeutic Engagement
Regular visits provide our residents with a comforting routine and something to eagerly anticipate. Dogs have a unique way of helping people express their emotions and reminisce about fond memories with pets from their past. Peps is more than a visitor; he’s a friend who helps our residents reconnect with their happiest memories.
A Boost for Everyone
The benefits of therapy animal visits extend beyond our residents. Our staff also experience reduced stress levels and improved morale when Peps is in the building. His presence creates a more relaxed, positive environment, making it easier for staff to interact with residents who are more engaged and communicative than usual.
Building Community Spirit
Animals have a magical ability to bring people together. Visits from Peps and other animals are shared experiences that encourage residents to interact and form new friendships. The positive atmosphere Peps create makes Cherry Tree House feel even more like home, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.
In a world that can sometimes feel isolating, Peps reminds us of the simple joys and connections that come from spending time with a loving animal. We are incredibly fortunate to have him and Claire as part of our Cherry Tree House family, and we look forward to many more heartwarming visits in the future.
Would you like to bring a PAT animal into Cherry Tree House? Please get in touch. You can email us at admin@salveocare.co.uk or call us on 01494 328 777.
