Reporter: Pam Dankins
The Carrington Nursing Center in Starkville is hosting their first Halloween Pet Parade this year 3 p.m. Oct. 28.
The Activities Department is hosting a no-contact event led by Amy Wigginton, the Activity Director. Wigginton said she wanted to create new and fun activities for the residents to participate in, considering the challenges COVID-19 brought upon the facility.
“There was a breakout of COVID in our facility, and all the residents had to stay in their rooms,” Wigginton said. “Almost for a whole year, the residents weren't able to do activities, be in groups or socialize really, just because it was so serious with their health.”
The Activity Department promotes the health and wellness of residents through cognitive and emotional expression activities to keep the residents’ self-esteem high. Normally, the Activity Department engages with the residents by playing leisure games, performing workout routines, enjoying dance parties, creating arts and crafts and getting fresh air.
Activity Assistant Monique Hall said she interacts with residents on a daily basis and always tries to keep the residents’ opinions in mind when deciding on events. Hall said several residents have spoken to her about inviting their family members and animals to participate in the parade.
“We appreciate everything that the community and the public is trying to help us out with because that means a lot to us,” Hall said maintaining eye contact.
Registration sheets and parking locations have yet to be established for this free admission event. In this no-contact parade, the residents will choose the first-place winner as the animals are walked along the outside of the facility’s windows.
Wigginton, a dog owner herself, said she wanted the parade to increase interaction between the community and residents. Wigginton said she is waiting to see the amount of people who will decide to be involved.
“Well, I’m super excited,” Wigginton said. “I'm still getting some details worked out about everything but stay tuned on the Facebook page, and hopefully we will see you on the 28th.”