This week my little Beagle/Pug mix makes his debut as a therapy dog at the local Alzheimers facility. Ernie will make a great ambassador, because he loves nothing more than attention. Well, maybe foraging in the raspberry patch tops attention, but not by much.
Dogs have long been used in nursing homes and hospitals. According to a news feature by Joel Moreno of KomoNews.com in Seattle, dogs are now also being used in traumatic courtroom cases to calm victims during difficult testimony. They’ve helped kids prosecuted in drug court to stay clean after having the experience of being responsible for an animal.
Studies have shown that involvement with animals can improve self-esteem; lower blood pressure, cholesterol, anxiety, and stress; and even reduce the number of medical visits for minor health issues. I can say from personal experience, that the day after my recent surgery when a volunteer showed up at my bedside with her dog, it made my day!
If you have a pet with a gentle temperament, consider sharing the love by volunteering an hour a month at a long term care facility.
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