Thirwood Place News: The Companion Animal Program of Cape Cod

The Benefits of Therapy Dogs for Seniors

 

It’s hard not to love dogs. Especially therapy dogs. According to Psychology Today, “Research suggests that animal-assisted therapy can positiviely impact the quality of life of the elderly. This is particularly relevant for those living alone or in long-term care facilities.”

The same study shows that animal-assisted therapy for seniors has several benefits including increase in physical activity, mental activity, and community. It also helps increase positive emotions and helps combat lonliness.

I’m sure you thought dogs were fun and friendly but did you realize the impact they can have on your mental and physical health? At Thirwood Place we don’t just organize our activities based on fun. We take into account the health and well-being of our residents. Visits from the Companion Animal Program of Cape Cod not only make our residents happy, but they positively impact their physical and mental health as well.

The Companion Animal Program of Cape Cod

 

CAP or the Companion Animal Program of Cape Cod has been a leader in the pet therapy world for over 35 years. Senior Living Villages are only one of the many communities they serve. They also visit hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and libraries from Bourne to Provincetown.  CAP is now a non-profit charitable corporation with 90 therapy teams.

All CAP pets are required to earn their ACK Canine Good Citizen certification before enrolling in the CAP training course. The CAP training course takes six weeks and prepares both the dog and the handler for a dog therapy evaluation and orientation at a CAP visitation site. This test is so important because it measures the team’s response to something unexpected. This could be a pulled ear or tail, “unconventional petting” or a negative response to medical equipment or environment. These tests are done to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

History

 

CAP was founded on Cape Cod in Orleans in 1986. A small group of pet owners had the idea of bringing their dogs to visit their pet-loving friend who was in a rehabilitation unit. Upon

visiting, this group of friends noticed that a visit from some furry friends not only positively impacted their friend, but other residents there as well. This positive reception led to more visits with more and more residents each time. And then, The Companion Animal Program of Cape Cod was born. Just a small group of friends trying to make a positive impact in another person’s life.

As described on their website, “The Companion Animal Program is indebted to the founders of the CAP program, Nancy Porter, Prue Terkerian, Jean Warren, Helen Elliot and Jo Hammond, who took an idea, implemented it, and prepared the foundation for the success of the program as it is today. As a result of their dedication and tireless efforts, CAP has evolved into an organization that is respected for its consistent quality in the field of pet therapy.”

Just one friendly visit led to an operation that would positively impact many lives across the Cape.

CAP Comes to The Cove at Thirwood Place       

                                 

At The Cove at Thirwood Place we are extremely lucky to get monthly visits from CAP. It is one of our most well attended Assisted Living activities. You can actually hear the residents chatting about how much they look forward to it upon the week of the CAP visit.

Two frequent flyers we get visits from are Molly and Maddie. Our residents have gotten to know the companion dogs and their handlers very well. The more familiarity the more fun the visit. Our residents love to get updates on what’s new with their favorite Companion pups.

What’s wonderful about CAP is that they bring a variety of breeds with them. The tiny dogs rest on our residents’ laps. The larger breeds may rest their heads on a knee waiting for pets. They always finish their visit with some tricks, which is always great entertainment.

How to Get Involved with CAP

Click here to visit the CAP website. If you’re interested in having CAP to a presentation for your club please email info@companionanimalprogram.com