THERAPY WITH FOUR LEGS & FUR


A New Collaboration at Landis Homes


It was exciting to see Keystone Pet Enhanced Therapy Services (KPETS) move their offices to the campus of Landis Homes in early February.


K


PETS, founded in 2003 by Karen Gerth, is designed to provide volunteer teams of humans and animals to promote well-being by sharing the power of human-


animal interactions. Teir more than 300 volunteer teams provide thousands of hours yearly, at no cost to hundreds of locations in South Central PA and Northern MD.


Tis new collaboration began when the organization’s lease was ending at their previous location. Karen reached out to Susan


Paul, Personal Care Home Administrator at Landis Homes. Susan recalls being thrilled by the call, saying “Karen’s passion for pet therapy goes far beyond just bringing dogs for people to interact with. Collaborating with KPETS would benefit everyone, including the therapy teams coming here. I knew having them on this campus would be a win for everyone.”


Susan immediately contacted Director of Campus Services, Adam Gardner, who got in touch with Karen to see what might be possible. Fortunately, there was space in Leaman Place, a converted cottage now serving as offices. Te location has the added perk of being next to an enclosed dog park. KPETS now has space for their office team as well as volunteer trainings and other events.


Adam shared, “As a dog owner myself, I see the value of pets and how they can make a difference in the lives of people in so many ways. We are excited to bring KPETS to the Landis Homes campus.”


Landis Homes resident Carolyn Hanes describes KPETS animal friend Kody as sweet, loveable, and affectionate. “Te residents will really love getting to meet him and the other dogs of KPETS,” she said. “KPETS being here may even give residents on campus the opportunity to get their own dogs trained and certified so our own dogs could become ambassadors for enhanced wellbeing around Landis Homes.”


Each month KPETS will dedicate a certain number of hours to serve residents, team members and others on the Landis Homes campus. Volunteer teams have already been on campus interacting with residents and team members, bringing lots of smiles and hugs!


Karen relates. “Tis was something I always felt would be a good fit for KPETS — to have the KPETS ‘home’ at a location where we can connect and make a difference.”


For more information on KPETS visit kpets.org. Landis.org | FLOURISH | Spring 2022 • 9


Enriching


Lives, Together


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