EACH week Always Able Pet Boarding and Doggy Daycare at Kew opens its doors to the community to allow people to come and socialise with the furry daycare clients.
Owners Michelle and Atti Nohotima have a background in the disability space and are passionate about the therapeutic benefits of pets.
Their program is free to participants, pets and their owners.
“Pet owners need to give permission for their pets to participate, and a lot of our guests attend with a support person,” said Mrs Nohotima.
“It is very popular with elderly people who can no longer have a pet due to their living environment, and it’s great for the animals to have one-on-one attention, particularly if they are missing their families.”
Twelve-year-old Leo Hewitt attends weekly, and feels a connection to the resident cats.
“I love cats, mainly because they are calm, and I really like coming here before school every Tuesday,” he said.
His parents refer to his visits as cat therapy and are grateful to have this opportunity available to their son.
The Nohotimas have a group home onsite and prioritise employing people with disabilities where possible.
Participants in the program groom and play with the animals.
Research indicates that interaction with pets helps regulate the nervous system, reduces stress hormones, and provides safe, unconditional companionship following trauma.
Vere and Garry Gray regularly board their cats at Always Able and are delighted at the attention they receive.
“Our cats love coming here and enjoy the attention they get from all of the visitors,” Mr Gray said.
By Rachael THORPE
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