Pet Therapy Enhances Life at Westerton Care Home

Residents and staff at Westerton Care Home were delighted to welcome Luna back for another uplifting pet therapy visit. This lovable Shih Tzu is a regular visitor to the home and is always met with excitement from everyone she meets, bringing smiles, laughter and plenty of happy moments throughout the day.

Pet therapy has become a much-loved part of life at Westerton, with residents always looking forward to spending time with Luna. There is something very special about the calm companionship that animals provide and it is wonderful to see the positive effect she has on those around her. From the moment Luna arrives, residents are eager to greet her and enjoy her gentle, affectionate nature. Anxieties and tension ease away as residents relax in her company.

The benefits of pet therapy for older adults are well recognised. Spending time with animals can help to boost mood, promote positive mental wellbeing and provide valuable emotional comfort. For many residents, Luna's visits offer a sense of calm and connection, creating opportunities for meaningful interaction and joyful shared experiences.

Pet therapy can also encourage gentle physical activity. Residents enjoy playing games with Luna, throwing a ball for her and accompanying her on short walks around our accessible, secure garden, helping to promote movement in a relaxed and enjoyable way. These simple activities can support both physical wellbeing and confidence while bringing plenty of fun to the day.

For our residents living with dementia, Luna's visits can be particularly beneficial. During her visit, we enjoyed chatting about beloved pets from the past and sharing treasured stories, memories and experiences with each other. These moments not only support reminiscence but also help to strengthen social connections, reduce feelings of loneliness and create a strong sense of community within our home.

Luna's visits are just one part of Westerton Care Home's vibrant and engaging activities programme, which is designed to support residents' wellbeing, interests and independence. From creative sessions and social gatherings to wellbeing-focused activities and special events, there are many opportunities for residents to stay connected and engaged. Pet therapy remains a firm favourite and Luna never fails to brighten everyone's day with her friendly personality and wagging tail.

At Westerton Care Home in Glasgow, we are proud to provide a warm, inclusive and calming environment where residents can enjoy enriching experiences, meaningful companionship and moments of happiness every day. If you’d like to get a sense for our wonderful home in-person, please arrange a home visit today; our friendly team can’t wait to show you around.