The Power of Therapy Dogs
Oct 27, 2015
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There is power in the presence of a therapy dog, beyond such anecdotal stories, which are supported by empirical research and statistics.
A groundbreaking study presented in November 2009 found that adults recovering from total joint-replacement surgery and receiving visits from therapy dogs needed 50% less pain medications than those not receiving therapy dog visits (Plunkett 2009). Past research has shown that interactions with a dog can decrease heart rate and blood pressure (Steed & Smith 2002). Cases have been cited where the use of dogs with seniors can increase mental stimulation and social interaction (Buettner & Martindale 2008), elevate positive mood levels (Lutwack-Bloom, Wijewickrama, & Smith 2005), and reduce loneliness (Banks & Banks 2005). These beneficial effects have also been documented with those affected with Alzheimers Disease (Buttram, D. 2004).
So what exactly is a therapy dog? A therapy dog is trained to give affection and to comfort people around them. They must be friendly, patient, gentle, and love human contact with both strangers as well as with those familiar to them. Whether it is a motorized wheelchair whizzing by or a confused resident yelling down the hall in an Alzheimers community, a therapy dog should be able to walk into all sorts of unpredictable settings, remain calm and display good behavior. Though some of these skills come from training, a large part of what makes a therapy dog is the dogs temperament and personality. These dogs may visit hospitals, senior communities, facilities or private homes. The goal is to connect the person with such a dog, thereby resulting in a plethora of positive side effects.
There is no doubt that the human-dog connection is powerful. Dogs are loyal companions that shower us with unconditional love. There is no judgment and no expectation except to want to be your lovable friend. As the increased use of therapy dogs makes inroads into the medical community, it is my hope that therapy animals will be seen as an integral component of a persons recovery process, care plan and overall well being. Weve seen firsthand how therapy dogs enable seniors to gain a sense of acceptance, self confidence, and comfort. Weve seen how these benefits can often surpass even those that come from the use of prescribed medications a priceless value that will hopefully become a standard care for seniors.
Editors Note: References for this article are on file. The article was submitted by Susan Oh, Owner of OHomeCare, providing non-medical home care and therapy dog services throughout Denver Metro. She can be reached at 303-350-3085 or by email at susan@ohomecare.com
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