Therapy dogs are specially trained animals that provide emotional support and comfort to individuals in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and community centers. This can apply to other animals such as horses and cats but we are focusing on dogs. Unlike service dogs, which are trained to assist individuals with specific disabilities, therapy dogs focus on enhancing the well-being of multiple people, often in therapeutic or educational environments.
History of therapy dogs
Dogs have been providing love and reassurance to their owners for centuries. For as long as dogs have been domesticated, there has been evidence of their natural healing abilities over the physically and emotionally convalescent. The first therapeutic use of dogs can be traced back to ancient Greece, when dogs were employed to lick the wounds of injured human patients. In the 1700s, Quakers brought dogs to some of the earliest treatment centers for the mentally unstable, allowing patients to raise and tend to pets in order to rebuild their social skills. Florence Nightingale wrote that small pets in hospital wards and sick rooms were excellent companions to ill patients, noting the beneficial effects patients derived from the human-animal bond
The Pawling Air Force Convalescent Hospital in New York was a rehabilitation center for World War II airmen with flying fatigue, which would likely be understood today as posttraumatic stress disorder. After a few patients requested dogs to aid their recovery, the animal-assisted rehabilitation program became so popular and effective that it eventually "housed almost as many dogs as people" (Rusk, 1972).
Boris Levinson
Boris Levinson, a child psychologist, is credited with formalizing and naming "pet therapy" in the 1950s. While working with patients in his home office, Levinson discovered that a withdrawn child responded positively to an accidental encounter with Jingles, Levinson's pet dog. He encouraged Jingles to join the boy's sessions, gradually theorizing that Jingles helped facilitate the child's participation in psychotherapy.
Levinson expanded Jingles' involvement in his practice for years, eventually writing about his experiences in "The Dog as 'Co-therapist'" (1962). This seminal article about canine-assisted therapy was the first publication by a licensed mental health provider to examine the benefits of the human-animal bond in psychotherapy.
What Makes a Good Therapy Dog?
Choosing the right dog for therapy work involves several key characteristics and traits that contribute to their effectiveness in providing comfort and support.
A good therapy dog should have a calm demeanor and be gentle in nature, making them approachable and soothing for those they interact with. They should enjoy being around people, displaying friendliness without being overly excitable or aggressive.
A therapy dog needs to follow commands reliably and be responsive to their handler, ensuring safe and effective interactions. They should be proficient in basic obedience commands like sit, stay, and come, as well as have good leash manners.
Therapy dogs should be able to adjust to different environments, such as hospitals, schools, and crowded places, without becoming stressed or anxious. They must remain calm in the presence of loud noises, unfamiliar sights, and other animals.
A good therapy dog often seeks out human interaction and enjoys being petted and cuddled, providing emotional support. They should be able to sense when someone is upset or in need of comfort, responding with gentle nudges or a calming presence.
Therapy dogs should be in good health, with regular veterinary check-ups to ensure they are free from contagious illnesses. Regular grooming is essential, as they will be interacting closely with various people.
While puppies can be cute, mature dogs (typically 1-2 years old) often have the temperament and training necessary for therapy work. They are usually more stable and less prone to distraction.
A strong bond between the therapy dog and their handler is crucial, as it fosters effective communication and teamwork during therapy sessions.
Benefits of Therapy Dogs
Interacting with a dog can lower cortisol levels, which are associated with stress. Their presence can create a calming atmosphere, helping individuals feel more relaxed. The unconditional love and affection from a dog can significantly boost a person's mood, making therapy sessions more effective. Therapy dogs often serve as social facilitators, encouraging conversations and interactions among patients, staff, and visitors. Studies have shown that petting a dog can lower blood pressure and heart rates, contributing to overall physical health.
Where Therapy Dogs Are Used
Hospitals: Therapy dogs visit patients to provide comfort during recovery, helping to alleviate fear and pain.
Schools: They assist students in dealing with anxiety and can be especially helpful in special education settings. My Special Ed kiddos loved when the Therapy dogs visited.
Nursing Homes: These dogs bring joy and companionship to elderly residents, many of whom may feel isolated. I have seen the joy on my mother-in-laws face when the therapy dog would arrive, the short bond shared gave her a brief escape from her day.
Disaster Relief: Therapy dogs offer comfort to individuals affected by traumatic events, helping them cope with their experiences.
How to Become a Therapy Dog
Having your dog become a therapy dog involves several steps, including training, evaluation, and certification.
1. Is your dog suitable-ensure your dog has a calm, friendly, and gentle demeanor. They should enjoy being around people and be comfortable in various environments. Ideally, therapy dogs should be at least 1-2 years old and in good health. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential.
2.Your dog should master basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Obedience training is crucial for ensuring your dog can follow commands reliably. Expose your dog to different environments, people, and other animals to help them become well-adjusted and adaptable.
3.You will need advanced training. Some organizations offer therapy dog training programs that teach skills specific to therapy work, such as being calm around medical equipment or handling unexpected situations. Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behaviors and build your dog’s confidence.
4. Research and select a reputable organization that certifies therapy dogs, such as:
Pet Partners
Therapy Dogs International (TDI)
Alliance of Therapy Dogs
Review their requirements and training programs.
5. Complete the Evaluation
Handler and Dog Evaluation: Most organizations require both the dog and handler to pass an evaluation. This typically includes:
Basic obedience tests
Assessment of the dog’s behavior around strangers, distractions, and in various settings
Prepare for the evaluation by practicing in environments similar to those where you will be working.
6. Certification
Once your dog passes the evaluation, you will receive certification. This often includes registration and a photo ID for the dog.
Certification usually requires renewal every few years, which may involve additional evaluations or continuing education.
7. After certification, you can start volunteering with your therapy dog in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes, or community centers. Reach out to local organizations or facilities to find opportunities for therapy dog visits.
Conclusion
Becoming a therapy dog is a fulfilling journey that not only strengthens the bond between you and your dog but also makes a significant positive impact on the lives of others. Through proper training, evaluation, and certification, your dog can become a source of comfort and joy for individuals in various settings. Whether visiting hospitals, schools, or nursing homes, the presence of a therapy dog can bring smiles, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being. With dedication and love, you can help your dog fulfill its potential as a trusted companion and healer
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