Right at Home Salisbury & Andover's Guide to Pet Therapy
Published: 09/09/2025
Bringing Comfort, Companionship and Joy Through Our Therapy Dog, Lola
At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we believe care goes beyond practical support, it's about empowering and supporting the mind, mood and spirit. One of the most unique and heart-warming ways we do this is through pet therapy with our beautiful therapy dog, Lola.
Across Salisbury, Andover, and the surrounding villages, Lola has been making friends, sharing cuddles, and spreading smiles in care homes, dementia support groups, and at community events. This guide explores the many benefits of pet therapy for older adults, introduces you to Lola, and explains how you can request a visit.
The Benefits of Pet Therapy for Older Adults
The bond between humans and animals is powerful. For older adults, especially those experiencing loneliness, dementia, or mobility challenges, time with a dog can make a difference. Research shows that pet therapy can:
- Reduce Loneliness - regular interaction with a friendly animal provides warmth and companionship
- Improve Mood - stroking a dog can release oxytocin, the "feel-good" hormone, helping to ease anxiety and lift spirits
- Cognitive Stimulation - for people living with dementia, animal visits can spark memories and conversation
- Encourage Activity - even short walks or gentle play help keep people active
- Lower Blood Pressure and Stress - studies show pet interaction can improve physical health as well as mental wellbeing
In Salisbury & Andover, where community connection is so important, Lola brings extra comfort and a sense of belonging.
Meet Lola - Our Beloved Therapy Dog
At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we are incredibly proud of our four-legged team member, Lola, our much-loved therapy dog. With her gentle nature, wagging tail, and calm temperament, Lola has become a source of joy, comfort, and companionship for our Clients and the wider community.
Whether she's sitting quietly for cuddles, joining in with games, or simply walking through the city with our care team, Lola has a unique ability to lift spirits and bring a smile to every face she meets.
A Qualified PAT Dog
Lola is a fully qualified Pets As Therapy (PAT) dog, meaning she has been specially assessed for her temperament, behaviour, amd ability to provide comfort in different environments. She takes her role very seriously and loves spending time with older adults, families, and local community groups.
She especially enjoys her weekly visits to the Alzheimer's Support Dementia Centre in Scots Lane, Salisbury, where she is greeted with smiles, laughter, and open arms.
Why Lola Matters
Lola isn't just a dog - she's a valued member of our care team. her presence helps:
- Reduce loneliness and bring companionship
- Ease anxiety and lift low moods
- Spark conversation
- Create moments of joy and laughter in everyday life
For many across Salisbury, Andover and the surrounding villages, Lola's visits are often the highlight of the week, and it's easy to see why.
Her kindess is unconditional and her tail is always wagging.
Pet Therapy in the Salisbury & Andover Community
We are proud to bring Lola into the community to share the joy of pet therapy. Some of the places you might spot her include:
- Local care homes such as Salisbury Manor Care Home
- Community coffee mornings
- Silver Salisbury events
- Alzheimer's Support Dementia Centre in Scots Lane
- Hospitals (Fountain Way, Salisbury District Hospital)
Every visit is tailored to the needs of the people we meet. For someone who may be withdrawn or anxious, even a short interaction with Lola can spark conversation and connection.
Request a Visit with Lola
Would you or your community group like a visit from Lola? We are currently offering pet therapy sessions in Salisbury, Andover, and nearby villages.
Call us on 01722435615 for a friendly chat or email us at salisbury@rightathome.co.uk
