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PETS WITH A PURPOSE

ANIMAL-ASSISTED ACTIVITIES (AAA) / ANIMAL- ASSISTED THERAPY (AAT)

"A pet is an island of sanity in what appears to be an insane world. Friendship retains its traditional values and securities in one's relationship with one's pet. Whether a dog, cat, bird, fish, turtle, or what have you, one can rely upon the fact that one's pet will always remain a faithful, intimate, non-competitive friend -- regardless of the good or ill fortune life brings us."
- Dr. Boris Levinson, child psychologist

There is increasing evidence that the emotional and psychological benefits of pet companionship have physiological counterparts as well -- that pets improve not only the intangible "quality of life" but also improve human health. So it makes sense then, that for people who are isolated from their families, there's nothing like the love of a pet. Many people in hospitals, hospices, seniors' residences, palliative care units, day care centers, special needs schools, psychiatric hospitals, or nursing homes can benefit not only emotionally, but also physically, from regular contact with a trained activity/therapy pet. Whether it is the enhanced relaxation produced by pet animals in the classroom when children read books aloud, or the lowering of blood pressure in the elderly when they pet an animal, or the role animals play in social support and long-term survival of heart patients, the evidence is overwhelming. Animals, and nature in general, are a marvelous health tonic. If we include them in our lives, if our physiology is set in a way that includes the rest of the living world, then we shall live longer and certainly more rewarding lives.

What makes a good AAA/AAT cat?

A good AAA/AAT pet is calm, tolerant and friendly. The balance between calmness, and friendliness is a difficult one and only select cats posess the qualities and temperaments suitable for this type of work.. Our therapy cats must pass strict behavoiral and health screening.

The astounding benefits of animal-assisted activities / therapy extend not only to the recipient of the therapy, but also to us and the animals.

Meet our Bengal Therapy Cats

Flick is a bit of a clown and entertainer. He brings smiles and giggles to everyone he meets. He is perfect for working with children and in predicatable situation therapy.

Knight is cool, calm, and collected at all times and envokes those same responses to those around him. He has exceeded all our expectations and can work in complex situation therapy.

Delta Society is an international, non-profit organization that trains volunteers and screens pets for participation in animal visiting and therapy programs. There are hundreds of healthcare facilities on a waiting list for pet partners. If you are interested in becoming a Pet Partner Team, you can get information by contacting the Delta Society at www.deltasociety.org.

Please note: Our cats are NOT service animals. Service animals are not considered “pets.”

We are a Delta Society Registered Pet Partner Team

photos by Helmi Flick