Is Your Dog Well-Suited to Assist in Therapy?

     Canines and people have always shared a close bond. Through history, they have worked together, provided companionship for each other, and formed a symbiotic relationship that has survived every challenge. Today, most dogs are domestic pets. They provide us with friendship that improves our lives. In exchange, we provide them with shelter, food, and protection.

Many canines serve in capacities that extend beyond those of a domestic pet. Some are trained to help with Search and Rescue efforts; others help with personal protection; and still others help with therapy. This latter role is becoming increasingly common as more doctors recognize the value provided by therapy dogs (TDs).

In this article, we'll describe how canines were first introduced in a therapeutic capacity. You'll also learn how the role works as well as the traits that exemplify an ideal therapy dog. We'll also provide a few details regarding how to get your canine involved.

The Beginning Of A Therapeutic Role

Anecdotal history places the start of dogs' involvement in therapy on the shoulders of Corporal William Wynne during World War II. His canine (named Smoky) provided comfort to the troops stationed in New Guinea. When the Corporal became afflicted with a severe illness, he was taken to hospital overseen by Dr. Charles Mayo (who later founded the Mayo Clinic). Dr. Mayo allowed Smoky to stay with Wynne for several nights. During this time, she was also allowed to visit the other soldiers on the hospital floor.

Smoky's presence was believed to play a key role in the recovery of Wynne and his fellow soldiers. She spent the following twelve years as a therapy dog.

It wasn't until 1976 when a nurse named Elaine Smith founded a professional organization dedicated to training TPs. The organization was called Therapy Dogs International; it continues to serve patients to this day.

How Therapy Teams Operate

Each canine that provides therapy-related services to patients works with a handler. This person is typically the pet's owner; they form a team. Once the dog has been tested and trained, the team travels to a range of facilities to visit patients. These can include children's homes, hospitals, psychologists' offices, and nursing homes.

Many patients are undergoing emotional challenges for which a canine is well-suited to provide companionship. Others are going through physical difficulties; having a dog present is inspirational. Still others suffer from social or cognitive issues where a canine's patience is invaluable for recovery.

Depending on the challenge, patients may be encouraged to walk the dog, read to him, or simply pet him. The company provided by the canine often accelerates the rehabilitation or recovery process in ways that modern medicine cannot match.

What Traits Make A Good Therapy Dog?

It's worth emphasizing that any canine from any breed can become a therapy dog. The most important quality in a TP is disposition. He must be friendly to people, and accustomed to being near them for long periods. He should show no signs of aggression; he must be able to remain calm and patient in every circumstance. An ideal candidate for the role should also enjoy the company of children and adults, regardless of gender. And since other pets are often involved with therapy, he should enjoy being around other animals.

On Becoming A Team

The road to providing therapy to patients involves a high level of training and testing. Some organizations, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), offer basic courses that provide certification. For example, the AKC offers a Good Citizen course. This is a program that certifies your canine has undergone socialization training.

Following completion of the course, you'll need to contact an organization such as Therapy Dogs International. They will inform you of the standards your canine needs to meet in order to serve as a TP. Bear in mind there are multiple organizations in this area, and each maintains their own requirements. Once you meet these requirements, you and your dog will be sent out to visit patients.

Not all canines are well-suited for this type of work. However, serving in this capacity can be a deeply fulfilling experience for you and your pet.