The Last Days Of ‘Operation Santa Paws’

BREWSTER – This year, Cape Cod Post Acute Care is giving back to their most meaningful patient caregivers: animals. 

CCPAC is a subacute rehabilitative and nursing care facility that specializes in post-hospitilization stabilization and long-term resident caregiving. Many of their long-term residents benefit from animal therapy, particularly those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

During the month of December, the facility has been collecting pet supplies for the Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Brewster shelter. Requested items include blankets and towels, dog and cat beds, unopened pet food/treats, pet toys, grooming products, collars and leashes and food/water bowls. 

The facility, previously known as AdviniaCare Pleasant Bay, recently changed ownership and joined a network of healthcare centers within the region known as The New England Life Enrichment Team. For the last three years, these centers have been coming together every December to collect donations for around 20 shelters across New England. 

The benefits of animal therapy for seniors,” facility officials said in a press release, “include emotional uplift, increased self-esteem, improved social skills, and reduced risk of depression and anxiety.”

Donations will be accepted at the facility located at 383 South Orleans Rd. in Brewster through Dec. 22.