Penacook residents look forward to seeing their “Buddy”

Therapy dog touches the lives of nursing home residents

HAVERHILL – When Jeff Cohen makes his monthly rounds at Penacook Place Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, residents typically greet him with a big smile. However, it’s Cohen’s pal Buddy – a four year-old golden retriever and certified therapy dog – that they’re really happy to see.
          “I look forward to Buddy’s visits,” said Penacook resident and dog lover Mary Hamel as she fed Buddy a treat provided by Cohen. Hamel, who once had a dog herself, noted that Buddy’s visits are a nice chance to pet and enjoy a dog for a little while since she can no longer have one of her own.
          Buddy and Cohen began visiting Penacook residents several months ago. Activities Director Debbie Dube says pet therapy has had a positive effect on residents’ overall emotional well-being. In addition to their time with Buddy, residents also get bi-monthly visits from miniature horses during the warm weather months.
        “Buddy does tricks and gives kisses. He also likes to sit and be petted,” said Dube. “The residents look forward to Buddy’s visits and even talk about him when he’s not here. I’ve seen some residents who tend to be introverted and keep to themselves really respond and be more willing to participate in other things after visiting with Buddy.”
        Cohen, who brings Buddy to many nursing homes in the Merrimack Valley and Greater Boston, says such reports are very common. Cohen is a clothing representative for nursing facilities. He initially started bringing Buddy to nursing homes as a unique way to market his business. But requests for Buddy’s presence have increased exponentially, so Cohen’s marketing idea has taken on a life of it’s own.
       “Most people have had a pet and a visit with Buddy gives them a chance to enjoy him and connect with those happy memories,” said Cohen. “The positive impact of that lasts well beyond Buddy’s visit.”
       Buddy was certified by Pawsitive Dog Training in Milford, Mass. Two of the biggest requirements for certification as a therapy dog are that the animal be non-aggressive and a good listener. Buddy gets high marks in both of those areas.
Pet therapy and other programs that enhance quality of life for Penacook residents are supported through donations. Anyone wishing to help can make a donation to the Friends of Penacook Fund, c/o Penacook Place, 150 Water St., Haverhill, Mass., 01830.
       The 160-bed Penacook Place is the only not-for-profit nursing and rehabilitation facility serving the city of Haverhill. Penacook Place has a professional staff of 230 employees.