Furry Friends offer therapeutic benefits

  In this time of isolation, experts are recommending pets to alleviate stress.  

  People in the community are realizing the benefits to having a pet and the results are showing at the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society.  

  “Compared to previous years our animals are being adopted quicker,” Melanie Coulter, Executive Director of the Humane Society said. “The research out there shows animals are great for our mental health.” 

  This has been evident in the life of Louise Marquis, 50, retired developmental services worker, and diagnosed with a mental Illness.       

  She has always had pets throughout her life but when she was newly married, diagnosed with depression and alone all day, having her dog Finnegan got her through the isolation and lack of adult companionship.  This was never more evident than when she had her first miscarriage and Finnegan would not leave her side.   

 “She gave me non-threatening comfort, made me feel safe and never alone,” said Louise.  “Having someone else to look after helped give me a purpose when times were tough, and I didn’t want to get out of bed.”  

 Pet therapy is also used in the pediatric ward at Windsor Regional Hospital.  

 “In my professional and personal opinion children tend to gravitate towards animals,” said Emma Corke, 26, RN.  “It shifts their focus from medical to something positive when they hand the dogs treats.”  

 Due to the pandemic, the hospital’s pet therapy program is on hold and will resume when it is safe to do so.   

 Although dogs are the most common animal to be used for pet therapy, horses also provide healing.   

 This is unmistakable at the Windsor Essex Therapeutic Riding Association.  

 Through gradual exposure John Casey, 41, EMT, found what he needed after being diagnosed with PTSD.   

 “They don’t judge and can really read personalities,” said Casey who has been a volunteer at the riding association now for over a year.  “It has been a real game changer for my recovery.”  

  Their on the ground program has a shorter waiting list than the Riding Program which has a two-year wait. In order to get in to one of their programs a certified Psychologist or Psychiatrist needs to make a referral.  Horses from WETRA are also brought to nursing homes and for at home yard visits in the community.   

  “The farm itself has a relaxing atmosphere to start with,” said Becky Mills, 53, executive director and certified instructor.  “Like most places COVID-19 has hit us hard and we are in need of supplies.”  

  Mills also said donations to organizations like WETRA are tax-deductible. 

  Those interested in adopting a pet can contact organizations like The Humane Society, Tiny Paws Small Animal Rescue and TLC Animal Aid.