Pet Therapy Program Comes to Marco Dementia Respite Program

The Marco Dementia Respite Program (MDR) is provided by local residents for Marco area residents to give caregivers a hiatus while offering a safe, enjoyable and no-cost haven for loved ones with early-stage Alzheimer’s/Dementia. “Our momentum is escalating in 2023, with the addition of a second day – Friday - in February and the introduction of a pet therapy program,” according to Tim Rose, Chair of Marco Dementia Respite Program (MDR).

According to Dr. Paul Nussbaum, an MDR board member and Adjunct Professor of Neurological Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and President of Brain Health Center, “Research has supported the multiple benefits of human to animal bonding that is experienced with pet therapy and common pet interaction.” 

Maddy, a 15-pound female Bichon Frise pup, is owned by Judy Bennett. Judy is from Chicago and has been working twice a week in dog therapy. As she spends more and more time in Florida, she was looking for dog therapy programs. When she heard about MDR, she sent a note right away and is glad she did. She has been involved in dog therapy for about 17 years and Maddy is her second therapy dog.

Judy relates that when working at MDR last week, every person, participant or staff had a big grin on their faces. It was really rewarding adding to someone’s happiness. It also builds her relationship with Maddy. Maddy also gets a lot of treats and attention – a win-win for all.

Inez Rose, owner of Jack, a male Havanese puppy, has been working in dog therapy for over 15 years and Jack is her third therapy dog. Last week at MDR, the participants had smiles on their faces. The dogs bring smiles, joy and a feeling of love to everyone they visit. “Dog therapy is the best thing I have ever done in my life – it not only enriches the people I visit but it also adds so much joy to my life,” added Inez.

Maddy and Jack are all up to date on their shots and are well trained. During the visitation Inez and Judy are with the dogs at all times. The participants petted the dogs, gave them treats and watched with delight as Maddy and Jack performed tricks.

MDR’s Caregiver Support Group is held on Mondays and Fridays at 10:30 AM at the sanctuary of Wesley United Methodist Church on South Barfield in Marco Island. MDR acknowledges the need for helping and uplifting caregivers and that caregiving for a loved one can be physically, emotionally and financially draining.  According to Denise Rose, MDR’s Volunteer Coordinator, you don’t need to have a loved one participate in the program to join the support group.

Caregivers of potential participants are encouraged to call: 239-330-MDR3 (6373) to begin the screening process. Interested volunteers are also encouraged to call MDR on the various opportunities. MDR’s outreach program has been meeting with local groups and “knowledge of our program is growing quickly,” according to Tim Rose.

MRD falls under the 501 C-3 umbrella of (WUMC) and tax deductible donations are critical to allow MDR to continue and expand. All tax deductible donations can be made online at marcodementiarespite.org., or mailed to Marco Dementia Respite, 350 S. Barfield, Marco Island 34145.

Save the Date: March 20, 2023 is the MDR Inaugural Dinner Dance at the Island Country Club and open to ICC members and the general public. Cocktails, dinner, a live auction and music provided by Joe Marino and the Kingsmen. Dress is Country Club Casual and tickets are $200 per person. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please visit: marcodementiarespite.org. or call Carolee at 239-642-6731 or Karen at 239-642-4044.