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Touching
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| The Kentucky Humane Society is dedicated to serving companion animals and the community. Here is just one of the many stories where KHS has made a difference, touching lives...
Finding a Second Chance at Happiness: Macey
In May, the Masonic Home of Louisville added a very special new member to their family named “Otter.” The Masonic Home, which houses 235 beds for elderly who need assisted living and care, is a non-profit organization owned by the Masons. Gradually the home is  implementing a method known as the Eden Alternative, which uses plants and animals to bring life, peace and tranquility to its residents.
Otter, now named “Macey,” is the first dog to take up residence at the home.
Linda Mitchell, Business Office Manager of the Masonic Home, suggested that the facility adopt a dog from the Kentucky Humane Society to help improve the quality of life for the residents. Dama Manning, Director of Activities and Volunteer Services, met Macey at the St. Matthews KHS-Feeders Supply adoption site. The sweet seven-year-old girl stole Dama’s heart, and after making numerous visits, Dama adopted Macey in early May.
“She bonded with me right away,” Dama said of the German shepherd mix. “She’s quiet, and she’s very sensitive.”
 Animals are often used in therapy settings because of their ability to lower blood pressure, help with arthritis and improve the moods of those around them. When Macey isn’t following around one of her favorite employees, she likes to hang out in the Therapy Department. Eventually, she will receive therapy training so that she can work with residents one-on-one.
Although Macey now feels more comfortable in her new large home, it took her awhile to acclimate to the wheelchairs and walkers residents use. She loves interacting with staff members, though, and after a long day, Macey likes to curl up and sleep in the nurses’ station.
“She loves to have her belly rubbed,” Dama said. “She loves people and doesn’t like to be by herself.”
Luckily for Macey, the residents love to give her a lot of attention, too. Some visiting family members have even asked permission to bring in dog biscuits for Macey.
“The residents just loves her,” Dama said. “They worry about her and look for her.”
Many of the elderly residents at the Masonic Home know as well as Macey does that adjusting isn’t always easy. Having a furry friend around, however, makes their new living arrangements truly feel like home.
“So many of them had pets at home,” said Dama. “Coming to the facility, you lose that and we didn’t want that for them.”
Congratulations to Macey and her new family at the Masonic Home!
Click here for more information on the KHS Behavior Training program, which includes behavior tips, group classes and in-home private training.
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