Pets are a vital part of the family for many and restrictions during COVID-19 have given a new appreciation for our furry friends.
The Ipswich Hospital Foundation (IHF) has launched a virtual pet parade, all in celebration of the mental and emotional benefits that pets have given us in these challenging times.
An online form asks users to submit a photo, some basic information, and answer the question about how their pets help cope with coronavirus isolation.
IHF chief executive officer James Sturges said people were being asked how their pets had helped them with their mental health while being in lockdown.
“We thought it would be a good way to … bring those [mental health concerns] to the forefront of the Ipswich area, so we can work on how to improve the mental health of the whole region,” Mr Sturges said.
Mr Sturges said the IHF hoped to raise money to expand the therapy dog program, which had shown to have major benefits on participants’ mental wellbeing.
Read more here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-21/pets-provide-mental-health-support-during-coronavirus-pandemic/12264216
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