A quarter of an hour. That’s it.
That’s all the petting and cuddling with an animal it takes for a chemical chain reaction to commence in the brain, lowering cortisol — the fight-or-flight hormone — and increasing production of serotonin, the hormone that makes us feel good.
Animals can be wonderful support for all ages, and that’s one reason we love them here at Christian Health Care Center. We’ve added interactive robotic pets to the care plan mix for CHCC’s dementia care residents, with heart-melting results. Plus, we get visits from our friends — humans and animals — at Animals as Natural Therapy.
Animals also are known to provide companionship and to help the elderly maintain connections with the world around them. The simple act of running one’s fingers through a pet’s fur or scratching it behind the ears can do wonders for moods. Dogs in particular are wonderful for helping older adults get their needed exercise, keeping them on the move through walks or gentle fetch sessions.
How to arrange a pet visit at Christian Health Care Center
Visitors and volunteers alike can bring their pets to CHCC to visit with long-term care residents and therapeutic rehabilitation patients. Everyone loves pet visits!
There are a few guidelines, which help to ensure the visit is successful for all.
To bring your furry buddy to our Lynden health care campus, you’ll need to provide a current vaccination record prior to the first visit. Your pet must be in good health and free from fleas, and they must be kept under control while in the building (no running, jumping or excessive noise). Dogs should be on a short leash, and a crate or harness can be used for cats, rabbits or other small animals. Pets cannot enter dining or laundry areas, and you are responsible for cleaning up any pet accidents.
Those who receive care at CHCC are big fans of pet visits. They appreciate the warm-fuzzy (literally!) moments of engagement with dogs, cats, bunnies and more. If you’d like to bring your pet on visits, please reach out to our volunteering team. And if Mom’s favorite pooch has been pining for a visit, just contact our front desk at 360-354-4434 about dropping off a vaccination record.
Space for your loved one to visit with a treasured pet is available in the lobby, library, sunroom and conference room. Visits also may take place in their room, of course, as long as the privacy and comfort of any roommates are taken into consideration. We look forward to the visit!