The community connections skill building program at the WMU Center for Disability Services recently acquired a new volunteer - Jethro the pet therapy dog. Earlier this summer, Jim and Heather started bringing Jethro to visit participants on Thursday mornings. These visits have become a major highlight of many consumers' day as they love to walk Jethro around the building and get special attention from the lovable and gentle dog. Jim and Heather volunteer their time while Jethro walks around to visit with each consumer. You can see the excitement on everyone's faces as Jethro enters the room. Although the consumers love to pet and visit with Jethro, you can tell that Jethro loves the attention as well!
Pet therapy builds on the pre-existing human-animal bond. Interacting with a friendly pet can help many physical and mental issues. It can help reduce blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. It can also release endorphins that produce a calming effect. This can help alleviate pain, reduce stress, and improve your overall psychological state.
