adminPost by: Megan Blashford
Most of us have heard of animal therapy – most frequently dogs. There is overwhelming research showing that the presence of dogs, especially in a long-term care setting, can help decrease levels of loneliness and depression. I’ve discovered this first-hand by being lucky enough to train a wonderful golden retriever named Ginger, to become a therapy dog. And I can assure you, I am never lonely with her.
But hamster therapy? Does that have the same effect as traditional pet therapy?
After the extreme success of the 4H chick project on Asper Special Care, the Enrichment Specialists were determined to find a more permanent pet option for the residents on Asper Special Care. Upon introducing the idea of having a hamster mascot for Asper, Enrichment staff all agreed that it would be the perfect animal to trial as an alternate form of animal therapy. Soon after, enrichment staff came onto the neighborhood with a furry little blonde hamster, named Buster, who would call Asper home.
Thus far, Buster’s fanbase continues to grow. He has even received a lovely hand-knitted cap from a generous volunteer that all staff members are envious of (see adorable picture below). One resident mentioned to me that he “likes looking at the little guy each day on his wheel.”
Whether it is viewing Buster run on his wheel each day, or letting him crawl on you, he is providing the residents with something consistent each day – crucial for the memory loss population – and turning it into an enjoyable experience.
Hamster therapy may never catch on as a world-wide therapeutic phenomenon BUT, it has certainly earned its worthy praise on Asper as a program with a purpose.
