Diamond, Certified Therapy Dog
Diamond, our Certified Therapy Dog, is a gentle soul with a heart full of love and an incredible talent for bringing joy and comfort to those around her. Trained meticulously in various therapy dog support techniques, Diamond excels in creating a calming presence for both adults and children in need of emotional and psychological support. Whether it's providing a soothing touch during a stressful moment or encouraging social interaction through her playful demeanor, Diamond’s impact is profound and transformative. Therapy dogs like Diamond play a crucial role in healing spaces by offering non-judgmental companionship, reducing anxiety, and fostering a sense of connection and safety. Experience the healing power of Diamond firsthand by requesting her presence during any of our offerings!
About Animal Assisted Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) involves the use of trained animals, particularly dogs, to improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals. Dogs are the most commonly used animals in therapy due to their friendly nature, ability to form bonds with humans, and their sensitivity to human emotions. AAT is conducted by licensed therapists who incorporate dogs into their treatment plans to enhance traditional therapeutic practices. These therapy dogs assist in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and mental health facilities, providing comfort, support, and companionship to those in need.
Benefits
The benefits of animal-assisted therapy with dogs are numerous and well-documented. Interaction with therapy dogs can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate. The presence of a therapy dog can also encourage social interaction, improve mood, and enhance the overall emotional well-being of individuals. For children, dogs can help in developing empathy, responsibility, and social skills. In healthcare settings, therapy dogs can motivate patients to participate in physical therapy, leading to improved physical rehabilitation outcomes.
How it helps
Therapy dogs help individuals by providing a non-judgmental, comforting presence that can ease feelings of loneliness and isolation. The act of petting and interacting with a dog can release endorphins, the body's natural feel-good hormones, which promote a sense of calm and happiness. In therapeutic settings, dogs can be used to facilitate communication, especially for individuals who find it difficult to express their feelings. For patients undergoing physical rehabilitation, therapy dogs can serve as a motivating factor to engage in exercises and activities, enhancing the effectiveness of the therapy.
What to Expect
Animal-assisted therapy sessions with dogs typically last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the individual’s needs and the therapy setting. During a session, a trained therapist and a certified therapy dog work together to achieve the therapeutic goals set for the individual. The therapist may guide the patient in specific activities involving the dog, such as grooming, feeding, or playing fetch, which are designed to address their particular therapeutic needs. The dog's presence creates a relaxed and supportive environment, making it easier for individuals to engage in therapy.