Pet therapy (also called animal-assisted therapy) and the benefits for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias has been on the rise over the last several years. There are hundreds of research articles published on the benefits of pet therapy for people with dementia. In the general population, researchers have long suggested pets are good for us, offering health benefits ranging from lowering blood pressure and heart rate to reducing stress and boosting levels of the hormone, serotonin. It stands to reason, then, finding pets interacting with those with Alzheimer’s and dementia is becoming commonplace.
A case in point is the amazing work by the “Benepets” therapy pet parrot named Sammy. Sammy was a beautiful blue and gold Macaw. Macaws are the big birds of the parrot family. For approximately 15 years, Sammy was a mainstay at Benevilla where he entertained and delighted members of the various Life Enrichment Day Programs.
He delighted his audiences with his numerous tricks and his gentle disposition. Everybody loved Sammy. Sammy’s typical performance would include talents showcasing his beauty and his peaceful demeanor. On the command of “eagle”, he would spread his beautiful wings in a flurry of bright color. When he was standing on his owner’s hand and given the command “baby” he would flop down in his owner’s arms and be cradled.
The Benevilla older adult members loved seeing Sammy eat raw nuts. Once handed an almond, he would take it from his talons to his mouth, crack the shell, use his tongue to extract the nut. He was a very good climber. He would be set on the ground and on the command of “up”, he would walk to his perch and climb to the top. When his owner, Rick Zekman of Surprise would put his mouth close to his beak and say “I want a kiss” Sammy would put his beak to his lips for a smooch.
As members of the Benevilla Life Enrichment Day programs interacted with Sammy you could see the marked difference in their behaviors. Their moods improved. Even though members were excited to see the richly colored parrot, there was always an overall calming effect. Social interaction increased and which led to increased physical activities. Sammy had an amazing effect on the members.
It was obvious Sammy held an unconditional love and loyalty for his owner Rick. Unfortunately, Sammy passed away this May. He was with Rick his entire life of almost 20 years. Not only did he serve a great need and bring joy to all when working with the members at Benevilla , but he made Rick laugh every day. Through Sammy, it was obvious to see how an animal’s love and acceptance, as well as the therapeutic physical touch from pet contact, can improve quality of life, with or without dementia. Sammy will be missed by many.