Elizabeth Wade, who is in respite care at Woodleaf, rooms with her cat, Jenni, a perky, playful two-year-old feline. Jenni has lots of toys and is not bashful about performing for visitors.

Family and friends of residents are encouraged to bring their pets when visiting.

A resident who had become withdrawn changed after a visit from the injured puppy.

“It was like a whole new person. ... The animal brought her to life,” Kilgore said.

“And she talked about it for three days,” Mandy Vickers, Woodleaf executive director, interjected.

Pet therapy at Woodleaf is on the horizon.

Vickers thinks visits by animals rekindle residents’ memories of their pets and children, particularly those who are suffering from varying degrees of dementia.

Vickers said the animals obviously are good therapy. They bring out emotions and conversations humans do not evoke.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 220.