The Eden Program at Vestal Nursing Center has helped transform our home into a lively, spontaneous, often unpredictable homey environment. The program has been an integral part of our daily life since 1995 and has benefits for all. The vision of this program is to eliminate loneliness, helplessness and boredom through pets, plants and people. The Eden Program provided residents with opportunities of companionship; to reach out to care and nurture; to look outward and enjoy the unexpected.

The Eden Program is highly ranked by resident satisfaction surveys and offers a pleasant environment in which to visit and work. It is a seemingly simple concept that has in-depth attributes that benefit residents, families and staff.

Visiting pets are welcome with proper health records on file.

VESTAL NURSING CENTER GUIDELINES FOR VISITING PETS

1. Owner must notify the nursing home prior to the visit.

2. Owner must provide written documentation of current vaccinations and name and number of attending veterinarian in advance of visits.

3. Animals must be clean and properly groomed, free from fleas and ticks.

4. Visitation will not be permitted if the animal is sick, diarrhea,vomiting, has open sores or is flea and infested.

5. The owner is responsible for their visiting pet’s behavior (i.e. barking, running, jumping, biting, etc.)

6. The animal will not be left unattended at any time unless prescheduled and approval by necessary staff.

7. Animals must be on a leash at any times unless prescheduled and approved by necessary staff.

8. Visiting animals will not be permitted in any dining areas during meal time.

9. The facility must have a policy in place and be used to prepare the in-house facility pet(s) for visiting pets.

TESTIMONIALS

"We cannot tell you how much it meant to our family, especially Dad, to have his best buddy, Casey Cat, with him."

"The homey atmosphere with pets entertaining, and just being recognized by name by everyone was impressive to me."

"We believe my uncle was in the best nursing home available. We always loved the idea of the animals and birds to befriend our loves ones. Thank you for you love and care."

"After a brief hospitalization in June, we chose the Vestal Nursing Center for our Dad’s rehabilitation. Our choice was based on reputation, services offered, location and the fact that VNC would accept our father’s loyal companion, Casey, his cat. While changes are never easy, Dad adapted because he had his furry friend, who always knew how to bring a smile to his face."