September 1, 2026
The Healing Power of Dogs at Winter Growth
At Winter Growth, some of our most beloved team members come on four legs and wagging tails. The dogs our staff bring to work offer warmth, comfort, and connection that reaches residents in ways words sometimes cannot.
The Science of a Warm Nuzzle
Dementia often affects language and logic, making communication difficult. But a dog requires no words. Research shows that interactions with dogs enhance mood, reduce anxiety, and provide social support.
One study found significant reductions in depressive symptoms among residents with dementia who interacted with dogs. Staff reported that human-dog bonding “empowered residents with a caregiver role for consolation and meaning.”
While our staff dogs aren’t formally certified as therapy dogs, their gentle presence has a therapeutic effect we see every day—calming anxiety, sparking smiles, and reaching residents when words fail.
A Gentle Presence That Reaches When Words Cannot
Sometimes, a staff member brings a puppy to work. No certification. No formal training. Just a warm, wiggly presence—and something extraordinary happens. The dog rests her head gently on a lap, a soft weight that seems to quiet the restlessness. Then she lifts her gaze, seeking eye contact with a look of pure, unconditional warmth.
Staff watch in quiet wonder as even those deep in memory loss seem to remember how to be with a dog. They smile. They reach out. They speak—sometimes a word, sometimes a name, sometimes just a sound of pure delight.
This is the quiet magic that happens at Winter Growth when a dog curls up beside a participant, offers a paw, or rests her head on a lap. These moments are real. They matter.
More Than a Pet—A Partner in Care
Employees also benefit from the stress relief and connection that comes with having their dogs at work. Pets bring “joy, comfort, love, and companionship” to both residents and staff, creating a more positive environment.
A Celebration of Community: The Annual Pet Parade
Each year, we celebrate this joy at our annual Pet Parade, held at both our Columbia and Olney centers. Staff, families, and community members dress up their dogs and join residents for a morning of laughter and connection.
While residents cannot keep pets in their rooms, we welcome dogs for visits—from staff members and from family and community members who join us for events like the Pet Parade.
An October Invitation
As autumn arrives, we invite you to experience the warmth of our community—starting with our annual Pet Parade this October. Join us to see the joy a wagging tail can bring.
Contact Winter Growth today to learn more.
At Winter Growth, we believe every moment of connection matters. Reach out to us today to learn more about our person-centered approach.
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Winter Growth’s founder dreamed of creating a community where seniors and adults with disabilities could continue to learn and grow – filling their lives with joy and purpose. For over 45 years, we have fulfilled her vision by providing unique, affordable Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Adult Medical Day Care tailored to our clients’ individual abilities, interests, and lives.