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
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