Alino Living welcomes two therapy pups

Aged care provider Alino Living has introduced two 12-week-old King Charles Cavalier puppies, Molly and Lilly, to become furry companions for its residents. 

Molly and Lilly became permanent residents of Alino's Central Coast community Killarney Court earlier this week to offer joy and comfort to 68 older Australians living onsite.

Pet therapy, or animal-assisted therapy, is an approach using animals to interact with older people to help improve their quality of life.

Resident Peter Chambers spearheaded the move and purchased communal puppies with permission from the facility.

Before moving into residential care, Peter had shared almost all his life with pets and said he longed for that special human-dog bond.

With the support of the facility's staff, Peter made it happen.

Molly and Lilly are settling into the community alongside Bella, the cat and Elsie and Charlie, the budgerigars.

"Bella the cat is lovely, but I was missing having more friendly four-legged friends around," Peter said.

"I thought, I can't be the only one who would love to see a dog around here, so I spoke with staff, and we made it happen."

Pet therapy has rapidly gained ground in Australia's residential care homes after studies underpinned it significantly reduced loneliness, depression and anxiety.

One study found that aged care residents slept longer and had fewer symptoms of depression after regular visits from the therapy dog.

Another study revealed that pet therapy reduced anxiety and distress and improved social connectedness.

Alino Living co-chief, Greg Williams, said the bond between humans and pets is excellent for mental health, promoting engagement and keeping a positive attitude.

"Molly and Lilly ensure our residents continue to live fulfilled and positive lives," Mr Williams said.

"We're already seeing their positive impact on our residents' overall wellbeing.

"We often find them nestled in the arms of residents during leisure and lifestyle activities and quietly watching from afar in their pen during mealtimes."

The permanent pet program at Killarney Court is part of their strategy to implement initiatives with long-term benefits for residents and the team. 

Mr Williams said he's excited to see Molly and Lilly grow and how they can continue to provide 'so much love to the residents.'

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