The best therapists in residential aged care have four legs and fur
Alino Living’s residential aged care facility Killarney Court in Killarney Vale on the NSW Central Coast welcomed two 12-week-old King Charles Cavalier puppies to its 60-people community this month.
Pet therapy is commonly practiced at aged care facilities as it offers joy,
comfort and companionship to residents. Killarney Court has long been aware of these benefits, having had pets on site for years, including Bella the cat and Elsie and Charlie the budgerigars.
The addition of dogs to the facility is thanks to resident Peter Chambers who, with permission from management, purchased communal puppies, Molly and Lilly.
- Prior to moving to Killarney Court almost four years ago, Peter had enjoyed the companionship of dogs for his entire life so, despite settling into his new home nicely, longed for that special bond between humans and dogs.
“I thought, I can’t be the only one who would love to see a dog around here, so I spoke with staff, and we made it happen,” Peter said.
“The recent addition of Molly and Lilly is part of our engagement and therapy program to ensure our residents continue to live fulfilled and positive lives and we are already seeing the positive impact they are having on our residents’ overall wellbeing.”