At the Aldo Leopold Nature Center, we know that truly living our mission and reaching as many children, families, educators, conservationists and community members as possible means expanding access now. In order to better serve our community, we are redesigning our space to increase our impact, improve our programs and better accommodate diverse populations. As […]
Big thanks to Amelia for bringing Jolene, the therapy dog, to the Nature Center!![]()
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Last week, the After-School students learned about climate change, and Jolene, the therapy dog, came to visit on Thursday to ease some of the climate anxiety that may have emerged from studying this topic!![]()
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Animal assisted interventions can benefit people in terms of general wellness and mental health by decreasing levels of stress-related hormones and lowering blood pressure. Simply interacting with an animal can reduce feelings of loneliness and boost one's mood by increasing feelings of social support!![]()
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Before volunteering at the Nature Center, Amelia completed training as a handler through Pet Partners and Jolene went through a rigorous evaluation to become a registered Therapy Animal. Jolene had to demonstrate that she is sociable, friendly, and comfortable around adults and children. She also had to show good basic obedience skills and that she loves being petted! ![]()
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Thank you again, Amelia and Jolene, for coming and making a terrific team!![]()
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Photos: Betsy Parker, Aldo Leopold Nature Center![]()
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#ThankfulThursday #TherapyAnimals #ClimateAnxiety #WIEnviroEd #EveryBodyOutside #NatureIsEverywhere #NatureIsForEveryone
