Aspen Hill Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Haverhill, where residents often benefit from animal-assisted therapy visits, has launched “Operation Santa Paws” to collect pet supplies and donate them to MSPCA at Nevins Farm in Methuen.
Through Sunday, Dec. 22, the skilled nursing facility at 190 North Ave., in Haverhill accepts donations of blankets and towels, dog and cat beds, unopened pet food/treats, pet toys, grooming products, collars and leashes and food/water bowls.
Aspen Hill notes therapy animals play a vital role in long-term care residents’ lives, particularly those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Benefits of animal therapy for seniors include emotional uplift, increased self-esteem, improved social skills and reduced risk of depression and anxiety…