Hounds Help Humans at HammondCare homes
A new pilot program from HammondCare and Greyhound Rescue will see aged care residents – including those with dementia – given support and engagement from rescued greyhounds.
Funded by a grant from Australian Ethical, the Australian-first Hounds Helping Humans program will run as a pilot at select HammondCare homes with specially selected residents and greyhounds; the dogs have been trained for the sights and sounds they can expect to experience in aged care homes.
According to HammondCare CEO Mike Baird, the program is part of the provider’s broader Life Engagement Project in its relationship-based aged care model.
“I am delighted that one part of this Life Engagement Pilot is evaluating how animal engagement and support can improve quality of life for residents.
“What a wonderful outcome if rescued greyhounds can be given a new purpose providing happiness for the those who are older in the community,” he said.
Greyhound Rescue President Nat Panzarino said greyhounds are a natural fit for aged care animal engagement, being tall enough for residents in beds or wheelchairs to reach, and generally calm in temperament.
“At Greyhound Rescue, we know all too well the magic that these incredible hounds can bring to people’s lives.
Studies have shown dog-assisted support can significantly improve the mood of people with dementia.