Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Pet therapy is a widely used practice that helps a person overcome physical and mental challenges. Bonding with an animal can reduce blood pressure and release endorphins that calm, decrease stress, alleviate pain and improve one's overall psychological state.

The Jewish Pavilion provides opportunities for the residents living at Oakmonte Village to interact with small animals brought from Pet Rescue by Judy. Each month on the third Tuesday, Cheryl Zambrano, along with her helpers, Carol and Jackie, bring several dogs and cats to brighten up the day and bring smiles to the faces. The positive health benefits, as well as the pure joy from holding or petting a dog or cat, is obvious as we watch our seniors interacting with Judy's pets.

- Susan Bernstein, program director