Spencer House Care Home in Northampton, United Kingdom, in partnership with the national pet service Pets as Therapy, is arranging weekly therapy dog visits for its residents. According to one long-serving care home staff member, these interactions make a “huge” and indescribable difference in the lives of residents.
Therapy dog visits bring joy to Northampton, UK care home
Over the past year, Spencer House has seen the weekly visits of a dynamic duo — Vicki and her therapy dog George — bring “immeasurable” benefits to the care home’s residents. This positive relationship, according to Jan Davenport — the Deputy Manager at Spencer House — often results in residents having fond memories of their own pets and creates an emotional atmosphere within the care home.
Recognizing the benefits pets can bring, Spencer House began its partnership with Pets as Therapy nearly a year ago — according to the Northampton Chronicle. Through their visits, Vicki and George develop deep relationships with residents, especially those who respond specifically to animal companionship.
“The impact of their arrival was huge and very emotional,” Davenport said. “It’s thought-provoking, stimulating and so important that they still have contact with pets.”
Having become an integral part of the care home, Pets as Therapy asked Vicki and George to represent them in a national marketing campaign. In addition, Spencer House, along with its residents, proudly accepted the invitation to take part in a photoshoot supporting this great cause.
In their ongoing mission to deliver a homely and warm environment, the care home often organizes other animal-based activities, such as visits to farms and bringing in exotic animals and creatures. . Additionally, Spencer House hopes to expand its work with Pets as Therapy by hosting events that support animal charities.
Meanwhile, the care home has plans to further engage with the local community. Their intended programs include setting up a volunteer gardening group this year and nurturing existing partnerships, such as at Abington Vale School. Through holistic therapy and regular singing sessions for their memory care residents, the efforts at Spencer House represent a wholehearted approach to the well-being of its individuals.
