Roo, a miniature sneaker-wearing horse, delights residents of Seashore Gardens Living Center in Galloway Township.
GALLOWAY TOWNSHIP - Seashore Gardens Living Center welcomed a very special visitor in May - a miniature horse wearing sneakers.
Roo, the therapy horse, is part of Ana’s World of Minis. The organization is a traveling therapy program started by Ana, a 14-year-old student who works with miniature horses to help overcome her own health challenges. Ana brought Roo to meet the residents, who had a chance to pet him and learn more about miniature horses.
“Animal therapy plays an important role at Seashore Gardens Living Center,” Director of Recreation Missy Rundio said. “Research has shown that visits from animals like Roo are more than just fun."
Rundio said petting a horse, dog or baby goat can decrease levels of stress hormones, regulate breathing and lower blood pressure. It also releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection in both the dog and the human.
"The residents, of course, just know that it makes them feel great," she said.
