In a world where stress and anxiety are common, the therapeutic power of animals has emerged as a source of comfort and healing. Led & Collared® believes in the transformative impact of therapy pets and is dedicated to supporting the local community through our partnership with St John Therapy Pets. In this blog post, we will explore the profound benefits of therapy pets, shed light on the incredible work of St John Therapy Pets, and highlight how Led & Collared contributes to this noble cause.

The power of therapy pets

Animals don’t notice human ailments, frailties, handicaps, or confusion; they just want to be with people. It is this innate desire for connection and companionship that make therapy pets special. Health experts have long recognised the amazing benefits we get from animal company, especially for those who are sick or lonely, or children who are struggling to learn. Spending time with therapy pets can reduce stress, provide comfort, and even help alleviate physical pain.

Who is St John New Zealand?

St John New Zealand is a well-respected and prominent charitable organisation that has been serving communities for over 140 years. Their mission is to enhance the health and well-being of New Zealanders by providing essential health services, emergency care, and community support. St John operates a range of vital services, including our national ambulance service, medical response units, first aid training, and community health programs – including Therapy Pets.

St John Therapy Pets and their mission

St John Therapy Pets bring friendly pets (usually dogs and cats) to visit people in hospitals, schools, and aged care facilities across the country. Their mission is to harness the incredible benefits of animal company to help and support those in need.

Therapy pets in aged care facilities: Regular visits from a four-legged furry friend can make a huge difference to the physical and emotional health of those living in aged care facilities. The love, affection, and friendship that animals bring greatly reduce the stress and fears often associated with illness or old age. This is why St John Therapy Pets has partnered with Summerset Retirement Villages. Summerset’s support helps cover set-up, dog assessment, and uniform costs, making it possible for more furry friends to make a meaningful difference in elderly people's lives.

Therapy pets in schools: Therapy pets have also found a special place in schools, where they play a crucial role in supporting children's well-being and education. Pets in the classroom can help boost self-confidence, improve concentration levels, and reduce poor behaviour. The focus in the classroom shifts from the adult in the room to the animal, creating a fun and relaxed learning experience for the children. Additionally, the Therapy Pets program includes the school-based remedial Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ) program. The close physical contact with a dog helps reduce stress in children who are normally afraid of reading aloud. The Therapy Pet helps the child relax and become more involved in learning, making education a joyful experience.

How can I help or get involved?

Volunteering with Therapy Pets: If you have a pet with a gentle nature and would like to share that love with others in your community, consider becoming a volunteer with St John Therapy Pets. The program welcomes pet owners who want to contribute to the well-being of others. Their professional trainers ensure that your special pet enjoys the experience and can make a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of those they visit. Learn more about how you can get involved with Therapy Pets here: https://www.stjohn.org.nz/what-we-do/community-programmes/therapy-pets/

Choosing Led & Collared: At Led & Collared, we firmly believe in giving back to the community that supports us. We are proud to be associated with St John Therapy Pets and demonstrate our commitment through action. For every collar sold, we donate one dollar to St John Therapy Pets. This means that when you choose Led & Collared for your pet gear needs, you become an integral part of the support system for therapy pets.

Conclusion

St John Therapy Pets' heartwarming program continues to touch lives, bringing joy, comfort, and emotional support to countless individuals across the country. At Led & Collared, we are honoured to support this noble cause and believe in the extraordinary power of animals to heal hearts and uplift spirits. By choosing Led & Collared pet gear, you actively contribute to this meaningful initiative, spreading love and compassion to those in need. Let us continue to work together, making the world a better place through the healing power of fur love.