Beginning in July our local Centre County PAWS from 1401 Trout Road, State College, PA. began bringing local animals who need homes to visit the residents of Brookline Skilled Nursing. The visits will occur two times per month with varying animals based on what animals they have who need homes. The hope is that in joining together with PAWS there will be several needs met: Both the pets and the residents will receive valuable socialization time as they snuggle and play, and the residents, families, and associates of Brookline will know when the pets are on the Activities calendar so they can meet the animals and pass the word to hopefully help in finding loving homes for adoption.
Pet therapy also has many benefits for this generation. The act of petting causes and automatic relaxation response that can lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. The movement can also increase joint movement, maintain motor skills, and provide motivation to move more, stretch further, and exercise longer. The visiting animals can lift spirits, lessen depression, decrease the feeling of isolation, and provide comfort. And the group the pets are visiting can share past memories and stories of their favorite pets, which will increase communication and socialization (you can read more about the benefits of pet therapy at www.PAWSforpeople.org).
These kittens are a sibling pair. They were very affectionate and playful. We enjoyed a full hour of hugs, kisses, snuggles, and playtime with lots of laughs and shared stories of favorite pets!
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