Animal Assisted Activities/Animal Assisted Therapy

Do you have a pet that is:

even-tempered
tolerant
well-behaved
interested in people
likes to be touched
is healthy and current on all vaccinations
gets alone with other pets

You may be living with a future therapy dog!

Therapy dogs visit in:

Skilled nursing facilities
Homeless shelters
Retirement homes
Acute hospitals
Psychiatric facilities
Daycare centers
Hospices
Rehab units


Why Visit with Animals?
Visiting with animals can help people feel less lonely and depressed. Visits from dogs can provide a welcome change from medical procedures. People view dogs as safe, non-judgemental beings. Dogs see beyond the physical problems and can help heal the heart and mind. Dogs can provide a comfortable, safe avenue to help patients communicate their feelings. Even after a therapy visit, the benefits continue by leaving patients with their feelings. Even after a therapy visit, the benefits continue by leaving patients with memories. Memories of the day's visit and of past animal experiences.

What makes a good therapy dog?
Some of the necessities are noted above. By all means, the dog must be social and enjoy greeting and visiting people. They should Also enjoy being petted and touched. And, of course, they must be under the handler's control at all times. A basic obedience class is a must. They must also be able to function around other dogs. Socialize, socialize, socialize!

Getting Involved

There are several wonderful organizations that you can get involved with. It is important to register with an organization as they will provide you with insurance coverage and help getting started if you need it. And, of course, they are always there for support. All can help you in the wonderful world of pet therapy.
I am partial to Therapy Dogs Incorporated. I have been with them for 13 years, and am a Tester/Evaluator for them. It is a great organization!

Therapy Dogs Incorporated
PO Box 5868
Cheyenne, WY 82007
877-843-7364
www.therapydogs.com


Delta Society
PO Box 1080
Renton, WA 98057
206-226-7357

Therapy Dogs International
6 Hilltop Rd
Mendham, NJ 07945
201-543-0888