GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP – Angel the schnauzer rencently made her second visit to Seashore Gardens, stopping by to see residents throughout the home. Angel and owner, Ava Holly Lewis-Korth, are among the volunteers who regularly bring their therapy dogs to Seashore Gardens.

The visits from Angel and other animals offer a real benefit to residents.

“Research has shown that visits from pets are more than just fun,” Executive Director Alysia Price said. “Petting a dog can decrease levels of stress hormones, regulate breathing and lower blood pressure. It also releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection in both dogs and people.”

 


Nanette LoBiondo Galloway

Award winning journalist covering news, events and people of Atlantic County for more than 20 years.