OHCA The Oregon Caregiver Fall Winter 2022

The Oregon Caregiver FALL/WINTER 2022 www.ohca.com 10 FEATURE of their independence. They’re no longer driving and now they often share a room with another person. A lot of them lose their pets. So, having pet visits can kind of bring back that joy and connection with an animal that they just truly have » FEATURE, CONT. missed by leaving their independent setting,” said Jensen. At Columbia Basin Care, it’s not unusual to see four or five animals throughout the facility at any given time. Melodie Davis, the marketing director of Columbia Basin Care, was adamant about bringing the animal program back to the community during the pandemic. Before the pandemic, the local Humane Society would bring in dogs and cats to interact with residents. With the lack of volunteers and restrictions from the pandemic, the program was put on hold. Davis took it upon herself to bring animals of her own. Before diving into the long term care profession, Davis worked as a vet technician and manager of an animal clinic. With six pets of her own, she is naturally comfortable around all types of animals. “Animals can really help keep you engaged and lift your spirits. I feel that CONTINUES » Residents enjoy hanging out with the onsite animals at Willamette Lutheran. A resident takes one of the onsite goats on a walk through Willamette Lutheran’s campus. Jack Tincknell, a resident at Willamette Lutheran feeds the onsite goats. Residents and staff at Columbia Basin Care Facility love getting visits from furry friends.

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