Dear Editor:
There is a deeper bond between canines and humans than meets the eye. Pet therapy has proven to connect canines and humans on a compassionate, therapeutic level. According to Therapy Dogs International, pet therapy has positively influenced patients’ moods and increased socialization skills, verbalization skills, mobility, and overall alertness. CarePoint Health is privileged to work with two certified service dogs, Janie and Ella, to provide therapeutic aid to our patients in all three hospitals. Patients can now request pet therapy and meet with the latest additions to our staff in the comfort of their rooms.
Janie, a 5 ½ year old Golden Retriever initially became a certified seeing eye dog three years ago through The Seeing Eye in Morristown, NJ. With an overabundance of seeing eye dogs, Janie went on to become a certified therapy dog with The Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs Association. Similarly, Ella the 5 year old Golden Retriever from Jersey City became a certified therapy dog through Canine Companions for Independence. Janie and Ella spend a great deal of time visiting libraries in the community reading and bonding with young children. However, very little reading is achieved as the children cannot get enough of these furry friends. Here at CarePoint Health, Janie and Ella’s gentle mannerisms and energetic personalities will provide patients with a unique form of comfort and therapy. When spotted in the halls of our hospitals, please do not hesitate to greet CarePoint’s latest loveable companions! For scheduling and availability please contact 201-418-2335 for more information.
Sincerely,
CarePoint