SAUGUS — Chestnut Woods Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in Saugus is hosting a drop box for Operation Santa Paws until Sunday.
The center joined the event in honor of the animals who come in and assist during therapy visits with patients, according to a press release from the center.
“Therapy animals play a vital role in long-term care residents’ lives, particularly those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s,” the release said. “Benefits of animal therapy for seniors include emotional uplift, increased self-esteem, improved social skills, and reduced risk of depression and anxiety,” the press release said.
Chestnut Woods accepts donations of unopened pet food, pet toys, blankets and towels, pet beds, food bowls, cleaning products, collars and leashes, and grooming products.
Operation Santa Paws is a non-profit created by Justin Rudd to collect supplies for shelters around the United States. The Chestnut Woods donations will go directly to the Protection of Animals in Wakefield Society (PAWS).
“So many animals are waiting for their forever home, and it is important that we remember them at this time of year. We are confident that Operation Santa Paws will bring shelter animals a little more peace and joy this season,” Rudd said.
