Four-Legged Family Members Create Fun for Mercy Health Seniors

Poppy the rescue Maltese Shitzu cross and Lulu the Maltese Lhasa Apso (pictured) are the two newest residents at not-for-profit aged care home Mercy Place Lathlain.

The exceptionally cute twosome are pet therapy pooches who come ‘as a package’ with the Home’s new manager, a qualified RN and midwife.

And it’s safe to say that the pair have been welcomed with open arms by the seniors, who are on hand to offer pats, chin tickles and various treats.

Owner and Mercy Place Lathlain’s newly appointed General Manager, Jo Forrest, says both Poppy and Lulu have already brought much joy to the lives of residents, the majority of whom have owned and loved dogs in their younger years.

“Just as I have been getting to know the residents and staff, so have the girls, and already they’ve had an extremely positive influence on everyone they’ve met, particularly our seniors who have already fallen in love with them,” she says.

“The majority of our residents have owned a pet at some point in their lives and so it’s no surprise that animal interaction is a great source of therapy for them. 

“We also know through various studies that animals improve the wellbeing of people and this is just one of the reasons why the dogs come to work with me.  As well as being big hits, we find that their presence aids relaxation amongst residents, as well as increases interactivity and excitement - the feedback from everyone has been very positive and we all feel very welcomed in our new roles.”

Find out more about Mercy Health.