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Therapy dogs are a beloved tradition at Heron Terrace
Residents and team members benefit from bonds formed with visiting dogs
2/4/2026
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Deron Hamel
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Dog therapy plays an important role in the lives of Heron Terrace residents and team members, and everyone at the Windsor long-term care community looks forward to visits from their canine friends, says Mervat El-Ainain.
Mervat, Heron Terrace's volunteer co-ordinator, says the weekly visits from trained therapy dogs provide an abundance of “joy, comfort and companionship” to everyone, especially the residents.
The program, which is volunteer-led, provides opportunities for residents to spend time petting, cuddling and playing with the various breeds of dogs who visit Heron Terrace with their handlers.
For many residents, these visits are a major highlight of their week.
“I look forward to (these visits) every Friday,” Alex, a resident, tells S&R Today. “(One of the dogs) reminds me of the dog I had when I was younger. Just petting her makes me feel happy and calm.”
Staff members also notice the positive impact these special dogs have on residents.
“The dogs lift everyone's spirits,” says team member Anu. “They help reduce stress, encourage interaction and even improve the mood of residents who are usually very quiet.”
Mervat says these visits have become a meaningful tradition that uplifts everyone at Heron Terrace.
“The weekly therapy dog visits have become a much-loved tradition at Heron Terrace over the years, showing just how powerful the bond between humans and animals can be, especially later in life,” she says.
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