Therapy dog helps heal hearts at care facility

Numerous studies show that animal therapy leads to reduced stress, depression, and anxiety. But one local care facility is putting that research to the test and the results are heart-warming.

We’ve all heard the saying ‘dog is a man’s best friend.’ “Bobby the German,” a short-haired pointer at Kindred Nursing and Transitional Care in Salinas, has over 100 best friends and he does his very best to give them the best type of medicine – love.

“He comes to the morning meeting with the team and I think it’s just a reminder of what he brings to the table for us and the residents,” said Kindred Nursing and Transitional Care Executive Director Gerald Hunter.

The facility in Salinas used to rely on volunteers to bring in pets, however that interaction was unreliable. Knowing the benefits, Community Lifestyle Director Mercy Rosario decided to take the matter into her own hands, by adopting a young dog, known as Bobby.

“It was a really good fit because I needed one that was a little calmer and that just loved people,” said Community Lifestyle Director Mercy Rosario.

Bobby spreads that love from room to room – job not taken lightly.

“He’s a love, he’s a love dog,” said resident Betty Hensley.

Hensley used to be bedridden, however she said Bobby helped change that. Proof that the power of healing begins in the heart.

“Oh Bobby got me out of this bed. He just sat there and looked at me and all that love and you couldn’t stand bed. You had to get up,” said Hensley.

One clear side effect is laughter.

“He comes in and he gets the whole room excited. And he’s wonderful,” said Naomi Gillott.

And the feeling must be mutual, because remember Bobby’s story started at a rescue now his pack rivals many.

“He knows he’s a part of our pack. He’s knows this is his forever home,” said Georgie.