Pandabear Kennels &

 

Kathy’s  Dog Training

Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs are trained dogs that provide services in places not traditionally frequented by dogs.    They are commonly used in Long Term Care facilities to entertain residents.  Petting an animal has been shown to decrease blood pressure and it is often the key to drawing out lonely or depressed people.  Therapy dogs can also be taken into hospitals or hospice situations to provide comfort and distraction during trying times.  Dogs can often reach individuals that humans cannot.  Therapy dogs have been used in reading programs with children, hospitals, search and rescue calls,  programs with the elderly and virtually anywhere they are needed.

Any breed, mixed breed, or type of dog can be used in a therapy program.   Dogs must be healthy, mentally sound and people friendly.  An annual veterinary visit and current vaccinations are essential. .  Dogs should be freshly groomed for their visit.  A good temperament, in both dog and handler is an asset.  The dog must be well behaved and capable of following basic cues in a distracted situation.

In order to serve our community better, we are forming a Therapy Dog group.  Our goal is to get a group of dogs and handlers together that can provide therapeutic visits to local long term care facilities, hospices, reading programs for children and basically anywhere they may be of assistance. 

For more information call Kathy at 250 442-2653 or email Kathy@pandabearkennels.ca.

Canine Good Neighbour Preparation