When Arlene Sinanian shows up at a senior community with her therapy dog, Aiden, the 13-year old Maltese senses he is going to work.
Sinanian calls him her “fiery guy,” one who took to pet therapy as a mere pup. He loves to stretch out on laps and have his long, white fur brushed. And he’s especially good with non-verbal people. Aiden just seems to bring out the voice of those whose thoughts are buried deep within.
Sinanian and Aiden are among the 300-plus Happy Tails Pet Therapy volunteers who visit senior care communities, hospitals, schools, libraries and other places around metro Atlanta. Pet handlers and their dogs, cats or bunnies show up for an hour visit, offering conversation and the opportunity to love on a friendly animal.
“Each animal gives us that one special something during their visit, and getting non-verbals to talk is Aiden’s. That’s his superpower,” Sinanian said.
Pet therapy has become an integral part of senior care, especially in nursing homes and communities with memory care services. The animals seem to calm those who are anxious, bring a smile to those who are agitated, and spark memories and stories about childhood pets from long ago.
“We could have dogs and cats here all day long and it wouldn’t be enough,” said Lisa Kiely, director of enrichment at Lenbrook, a senior retirement community in Atlanta.
Pets also break down barriers. They provide a common interest among residents who wouldn’t otherwise get to know each other, and they become a bridge to reality for those lost in the fog of dementia.
“Sometimes we go in and everyone is sitting quietly, no one’s talking. Some slumped over and asleep, ” Sinanian says. “And by the time we leave it sounds like a cocktail party.”
Pets can also be used to help seniors in rehab. Those who are reluctant to do exercises such as stretching or walking on their own will readily stretch to pet the dogs or walk them on a leash.
The need is still great. Happy Tails has long waiting lists of those who want the service, and also from clients who want additional time slots.
Volunteers are always needed. There is a commitment of training, grooming and time, but handlers say it’s worth it.
“It’s just a lovely thing to do. It’s a lovely thing to be a part of it,” Sinanian said.
PET THERAPY VOLUNTEERS
|There are several pet therapy organizations in metro Atlanta. Most dog breeds are accepted, and some also accept cats and rabbits.
|Each pet therapy organization has its own unique requirements, but basically pets must be up-to-date on vaccinations and health exams. Dogs should pass a basic obedience test, or pass a national pet therapy certification test. Passing the test requires working with a trainer who will prepare them for it. |Handlers should also have the right temperament for visits and undergo training to work as a partner with their pet.
|Pets should be well-groomed before each visit. |Most organizations require volunteers to make one or two pet therapy visits a month. Most volunteers do much more than that.
