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A Paw-fect Birthday Party at Mercy Place Abbotsford

on Thursday, August 29, 2019

Aged care residents at Mercy Place Abbotsford hosted a birthday party for one of their favourite visitors – Tali, the five-year old Labradoodle who is trained as a Delta therapy dog.

Pet therapy in aged care homes has been introduced as a way to reduce stress, boost wellbeing and bring the joy of animal companionship to residents.

Tali, who graduated as a Delta Dog in March this year, has been at Mercy Place Abbotsford for the past five months and was treated to a special birthday party celebration.

Mercy Place Abbotsford Service Manager Rose Tunious said Tali had become a great friend to all residents and staff at the home.

“We find residents not only enjoy having Tali come to visit but it also encourages them to be more active and engaged in activities around the home - it has boosted residents’ positivity and wellbeing.

“One of our residents, Debbie, has had golden retrievers her entire life, so seeing Tali every week brings back a lot of great memories.”

Tali’s trainer Garry Mann said he knew the day was going to be a special one – not only for Tali but for all of Mercy Place Abbotsford’s residents.

“Mercy Place is the first aged care home we’ve visited and Tali loves being with residents. His training as a Delta Dog means he is able to connect with everyone.

“The icing on the cake was the birthday party. We really felt the love and appreciation from residents and staff.”

Find out more about Mercy Health

Pictured: Rosemary Wright, Delta Dog Trainer Gary Mann, Tali and Eduarda Cogorro

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