Different approach to pet therapy in rural communities

The benefits of pet therapy are widely acknowledged in aged care, but it’s not only domestic animals that can help residents.

Many Bolton Clarke communities use Pet Therapy with their residents and choose the animals based on resident backgrounds and specific needs.

Regional communities often find great success using farm animals, while inner city communities use domestic animals.

Last week residents at Bolton Clarke’s Rowes Bay residential community in Townsville welcomed a young Clydesdale horse for a morning.

Many residents have come from rural and farming properties and love the opportunity to meet farm animals and reminisce about their own experiences.

The horse is owned by a daughter of a village resident and will be a regular visitor, Village Manager, Nicole McInnes said.

 

Pet therapy is believed to be beneficial for people with dementia and other cognitive impairments and may help to improve social, emotional and cognitive outcomes.

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