Golden retriever and registered therapy dog Daisy and her trainer Brian Kling bring smiles to residents of Allerton House in Weymouth. Research shows that pet therapy offers comfort and enjoyment to older individuals in communities such as assisted living. The benefits of animal-assisted therapy go beyond the feelings of well-being generated by visits. Studies demonstrate that using dogs like Daisy in a range of activities can help people cope with serious medical issues and reduce stress and anxiety.
It’s easy to see how Daisy, a registered Massachusetts therapy dog, brings smiles to everyone she meets.
One touch speaks volumes. Resident Cathy Cowley gently strokes Daisy, a golden retriever and pet therapy dog who made the rounds recently at Allerton House at Central Park in Weymouth.
Trainer Brian Kling and registered therapy dog Daisy visit Allerton House Assisted Living in Weymouth.
Daisy the golden retriever is an expert in the receiving line. From left to right, Allerton House residents Cathy Cowley, Doris Wheeling, and Marie Pesa take turns petting the therapy dog.
Residents of Allerton House (from left to right in foreground) Betty Deans and Beverly O’Neil enjoy interacting with Daisy and learning what it takes to become a registered therapy dog in Massachusetts.
