Athens senior center residents receive pet therapy with baby goat
Bertha Snider with baby goat. From Dominion Senior Living
ATHENS, Tenn. (WDEF) — Residents of the Dominion Senior Living of Athens recently got to interact with a baby goat as part of pet therapy.
Pete the baby goat, belonging to Cayci Nichole Henderson, visited the seniors at this Athens living center.
Animal therapy is gaining traction as people interact with animals to improve their physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
Doris Nicolo. From Dominion Senior Living
“Our residents loved holding the sweet baby goat, Pete, and so did the staff,” said Executive Director Kelly Neuharth. “We’ve really seen the positive impact of cuddling with and learning about animals for our seniors. And we are planning more animal therapy activities.”
Animal therapy can provide comfort and reduce pain, improve movement and motor skills, help develop social and behavioral skills, and increase motivation. This type of therapy is known to benefit mental health by decreasing anxiety or stress and reducing fear and worry. It also increases feelings of social support, according to Medical News Today.
Mary Self. From Dominion Senior Living.
The senior living center also says it can help seniors feel more connected. They say walking or playing with pets can encourage physical activity and exercise. This is important for their mobility, strength and overall health.
According to the senior center and Medical News Today, there are many other benefits that pet therapy can provide.
Frances Campbell (left) and Peggy Hassell (right). Photo courtesy to Dominion Senior Living.
