Cat love in the retirement home: Flecki and Sanny give joy!

Cat love in the retirement home: Flecki and Sanny give joy!

A happy life in the retirement home: The two cats Flecki and Sanny bring joy to the Hospital of the Holy Spirit senior center in Laupheim. Since their charming arrival in September 2016 at the initiative of the nursing staff, they have quickly become a central part of the residents' everyday lives. Flecki, with his characteristic black and white fur and dark spot on his nose, and Sanny, the red and white darling with amber eyes, provide company and distraction, especially in the evenings, while the quiet hallways of the home come to life. Nurse Saskia Grisotto confirms that the cats not only provide comfort to the residents, but also create tender moments during the nursing staff's night shifts. “Flecki is a loyal companion on the night shift,” she says. Resident Georg also has a special bond with the animals and lovingly looks after their well-being. As reported by Schwäbische.de, the cats not only bring joy to people, but also bring back memories of previous pets and promote an emotional connection.

Animal therapy in a nursing home

In addition to the loving company of the two cats, Cocker Spaniel Filou also ensures well-being among the residents as an unofficial therapy dog. The home manager, Bettina Michelis, uses the benefits of animal-assisted therapies to create a homely atmosphere. “Although Filou has no training, he is recognized by the residents as a therapy dog,” she explains. With them around, the seniors become active and thrive while caring for the animals. Veterinarians recommend such animal companions because they have a stress-reducing effect. Among other things, there are reports of a large number of cats in the Guardian Angel Village, which can also contribute to improving the living standards of seniors , according to information from Schutzengeldorf.