United Congregational Church
of Tolland

United Church of Christ
45 Tolland Green, Tolland, Connecticut 06084
· 860-875-4160

Caring Ministries Pet Therapy

Bereavement  Parish Nurse  Prayer Line  Prayer Shawl 

Pet Therapy Visits Are A Part of Caring Ministries!

by Kimberly Gottier

In 2011, Caring Ministries began offering Pet Therapy visits by some of our church members and their pets, who are certified by pet therapy organizations and it has been a welcomed addition to our program!

Animals have positive healing effects on humans. Petting an animal can reduce a person’s blood pressure. One report showed that nursing home residents became more social and felt less lonely after interacting with a visiting pet. Pet visits have been known to provide psychosocial support including through end of life hours.

The visits will be available to those who are homebound, living in a facility and/or those who are recuperating from post surgical situations or a lengthy illness. At this time we have three certified dogs who are able to provide a visit, and we are hoping to have more animals in the future.

Each visit will be handled on an individual basis. The requests for a visit can be set up as a one-time occasion or recurring. If you, or someone you know, would enjoy and benefit from the healing power of a pet visit please call to set up an appointment!


In Memoriam

Kathleen Moriarty and her cat Carlton, who was very active in our Pet Therapy Ministry.  Carlton passed away on Good Friday 2012.

 

Pet Therapy Team

 

Beth Waggoner and Cooper

 

Contact
Christine Anderson

 

Updated February 20, 2013
Webmaster RBittner@charter.net