An Unlikely Duo
Juanita Mengel and her cat Lola-Pearl are not your typical therapy animal team. While dogs often take the spotlight in this field, Lola-Pearl, a 5-year-old dilute tortoiseshell cat, is making a name for herself as a therapy cat for amputees. The pair is part of the estimated 200 therapy cat teams registered in the U.S. through Pet Partners, a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal-assisted interventions.
A Unique Purpose
Therapy animals are assessed based on their ability to connect with people and actively enjoy the interaction. While dogs are commonly recognized as therapy animals, Pet Partners also registers cats, horses, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, birds, mini pigs, and llamas and alpacas. Taylor Chastain Griffin, the national director of animal-assisted interventions advancement at Pet Partners, emphasizes the need for more research on therapy cats and their impact.
A Surprising Sight
Therapy cats often elicit surprise and curiosity due to their less common presence in therapy settings. The sight of a cat on a leash can spark interest and create a unique opportunity for connection. Lola-Pearl, in particular, has captivated the attention of many with her ability to bring joy and comfort to those she encounters.
An Intuitive Companion
Mengel knew Lola-Pearl would make an exceptional therapy cat after witnessing her natural affinity for people. Lola-Pearl’s intuitive nature allows her to brighten the lives of individuals in need. Whether sitting in a stroller or curling up on someone’s lap, Lola-Pearl brings a smile to those fortunate enough to receive her attention.
A Mother to Many
Mengel’s commitment to the well-being of animals extends beyond Lola-Pearl. As a mother to seven cats, most of whom have disabilities, Mengel acknowledges that these feline companions often find their way into her life. She embraces the opportunity to provide a loving home for these special cats.
A Tale of Resilience and Gratitude
Mengel’s own journey, marked by the loss of her left leg in a near-fatal car accident, has not dampened her spirit. Instead, she finds solace in her work with Lola-Pearl, expressing gratitude for the rewarding experiences they share. For Mengel, the impact of their therapy work goes far beyond the people they visit.
“It’s a really rewarding experience,” she said. “I get just as much out of it as the people that I visit.”
