What are the benefits of animal therapy in care homes?
At Macc Care, we believe in creating environments that enrich the lives of our residents, ensuring they feel at home while receiving the care and support they need.
That’s why we’re so delighted to welcome two very special new residents to Studley Rose Care Home – two adorable therapy dogs who have already made a lasting impression on our community.
From the moment they arrived, these lovable companions have been bringing warmth, joy, and comfort to residents, offering not just furry cuddles but genuine therapeutic benefits.
Keep reading to find out more about our new fluffy friends:
The Benefits of Animal Therapy in Care Homes
For many of us, animals are an integral part of life – whether as family pets, childhood companions, or simply as sources of joy in nature. For older adults, especially those living with dementia, this connection can be even more profound.
Research has shown that interacting with animals can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety;
- Lower blood pressure and heart rate;
- Increase social interaction and communication;
- Evoke fond memories and positive emotions;
- Improve overall wellbeing and mental health.
For residents in care homes, the presence of an animal can brighten even the quietest days. Whether it’s a gentle nuzzle or a wagging tail, these small interactions can make a world of difference.
Therapy Dogs
Our new four-legged friends are trained therapy dogs, which means they have been carefully selected for their temperament and ability to provide emotional support. Therapy dogs are known for their calm and friendly nature, making them perfect companions for care settings.
At Studley Rose, we’ve already seen the incredible impact they are having:
- Bringing smiles – Our residents’ faces light up as they greet the dogs each day;
- Encouraging interaction – The dogs act as social bridges, bringing people together in conversation, whether reminiscing about past pets or simply chatting while enjoying their company;
- Easing anxiety and loneliness – For those who may feel lonely, having a dog sit beside them or gently rest its head on their lap can be incredibly comforting.
Bhav Amlani, Director at Macc Care, said: “Seeing the joy that these two wonderful dogs bring to our residents is truly special. The simple act of stroking a dog can have incredible benefits, from reducing anxiety to evoking happy memories. We are so pleased to welcome them into the Studley Rose family.”
Animal Therapy Beyond Dogs
While therapy dogs are a beloved addition to Studley Rose, they’re not the only animals making a difference at Macc Care homes.
We’re proud to regularly host animal therapy sessions featuring a variety of creatures, each bringing their own unique benefits – including ponies, alpacas, and birds!
For residents living with dementia, sensory experiences such as stroking their soft fur, hearing the quiet sounds of an animal breathing, or simply watching animals interact with their environment can awaken memories and create moments of deep connection.
Why Animal Therapy in Care Homes Matters
Animal therapy in care homes isn’t just about fun visits – it’s about holistic wellbeing. At Macc Care, we’re always looking for ways to enhance the lives of our residents, ensuring they feel comforted, engaged, and part of a warm, loving community.
We see first-hand how animal therapy in care homes helps those struggling with anxiety, loneliness, or cognitive decline. It’s not just about the excitement of the visit – it’s about the long-term benefits:
- Residents who may struggle with communication often become more expressive when engaging with animals;
- Physical touch, such as petting a dog, releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of happiness and relaxation;
- Even residents with mobility limitations can enjoy the presence of an animal simply sitting beside them, offering silent companionship.
A Future Filled with Furry Friends
At Macc Care, we’re committed to embracing the therapeutic power of animals and ensuring that animal therapy in care homes remains an integral part of our approach to care.
We can’t wait to see how our new therapy dogs continue to brighten the days of our residents. In the meantime, we will keep welcoming all creatures great and small into our homes – because sometimes, the best medicine has four legs and a wagging tail.
For more information on Studley Rose or our other Macc Care homes, please contact a member of our team.
Alternatively, why not read our previous blog to discover the importance of connecting with the local community?
