I’d like to introduce you to Prairie City Landing’s mascot, Daisy.
Daisy joins Brenda for the holiday celebration at Prairie City Landing’s Harbor Memory Care.
You didn’t know senior living communities had mascots? Perhaps most don’t. But most aren’t Prairie City Landing.
Daisy is a special dog, much loved by her village. Her presence is not just a comfort but also a form of therapy, as research has shown significant positive effects of pet therapy on people with dementia.
Once upon a time, Daisy took attentive care of her owner, John, a resident of Prairie City Landing for several years. Daisy never left John’s side. They’d walk together, sit together, and sleep curled up next to each other. “She was always by his side. The two of them, you could feel the love between them,” Brenda, a Care Partner in Harbor Memory Care, remembered.
Daisy and John enjoying time together in the Bistro.
Likely, the effect Daisy had on John was more than just an emotional bond. Studies have shown that interacting with animals can help reduce anxiety, stress, and agitation in people with dementia. A 2019 study revealed that pet therapy triggers a resident’s automatic relaxation response.
Brenda especially enjoyed seeing Daisy and the joy she brought to John. “It just melted my heart to see the connection of John and Daisy,” Brenda remembered. As an animal lover, Brenda made it a point to ask John to share stories about Daisy. Over time, as John’s health declined, Brenda offered to help walk Daisy, and she became quite attached to the little pup.
After John passed, Daisy remained at Prairie City Landing. “She was so lonely,” Brenda remembered. She asked her husband if he was open to another pet in their family—they already had a bunny and a German Shepherd. “There’s a little doggy that needs a home, and I’m really attached to her,” Brenda confessed. Her husband was unable to say no.
Now Daisy joins Brenda for work at Prairie City Landing’s Harbor Memory Care. Daisy loves her new job. As Brenda turns onto the block, Daisy perks up and anxiously looks out the window, excited to be back at work. “This is her fun time,” Brenda said. She visits each resident in Harbor, doing daily rounds, eating whatever falls like a helpful dog, and getting pets from all her fans.
Daisy’s daily rounds perfectly align with research on pet therapy. Studies have shown that animal companionship can enhance social interaction and emotional well-being. The presence of a therapy animal like Daisy can encourage people who are withdrawn to engage with their environment, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Daisy has many fans among the residents and team members at Prairie City Landing. When Brenda isn’t working, the residents don’t ask, “Where’s Brenda?” Instead, they ask for Daisy! “Everybody loves her,” Brenda said.
Research confirms that the residents’ love of Daisy is justified. Interacting with therapy animals can improve mood and memory functions in people with dementia. Residents of Harbor know this firsthand. When someone is down or having an off day, Daisy’s visit can often turn the day around. “I just put her there to play, they can scratch her back, and she just makes them so happy,” Brenda said. The simple act of petting or playing with Daisy can lower cortisol levels, helping alleviate stress and anxiety.
Daisy’s journey from John’s companion to a Prairie City Landing’s mascot exemplifies the benefits of animal therapy. “This little animal has so much power,” Brenda said of Daisy. Her ability to bring joy, comfort, and improved well-being to residents showcases the profound impact that an animal can have in senior living communities.
Curious about our Memory Care program or just want to pet Daisy? Please reach out to our counselors who will be happy to answer your questions, or schedule a visit with Daisy!
If you want to learn more about Memory Care, please see our Just the Facts Guide.
