Pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy (AAT), is a growing field that utilizes trained animals to aid in healing and provide companionship. This therapeutic approach has gained significant recognition within the psychology world for its numerous benefits, ranging from improved mood and cognitive function to increased social interaction. A handler is always present during sessions to ensure the safety and well-being of both the participant and the animal. While various animals can be involved, dogs are the most popular choice due to their inherent trainability and affectionate nature.
The Therapeutic Benefits of Canine Companions
The positive impact of pet therapy is extensive. Engaging with trained therapy dogs can lead to a significant release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, fostering feelings of happiness and well-being. Participants often experience improvements in their overall quality of life, with enhanced cognitive function and more positive social behaviors. The unconditional affection and non-judgmental presence of a therapy dog can be particularly comforting for individuals facing various challenges, including those with disabilities, trauma, or mental health concerns. For those interested in specific types of therapy, exploring best dog breeds for pet therapy can provide further insights into suitable canine partners.
Top Dog Breeds for Pet Therapy
While many breeds can be trained as therapy dogs, some possess inherent traits that make them particularly well-suited for this role.
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are consistently a top choice for therapy dogs, mirroring their popularity as service dogs. Their good-natured, versatile, and eager-to-please disposition makes them excellent companions. Labs are known for their gentle temperament and social nature, making them ideal for various therapeutic settings. Their obedience and friendly demeanor are crucial for providing comfort and support, especially to individuals with disabilities.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers share many of the admirable qualities of Labradors, including a loving and comforting presence. They are exceptionally gentle and attentive, making them particularly suited for families and children recovering from trauma. Their substantial size can offer a sense of security, while their mild temperament helps individuals adjust to the world around them. Golden Retrievers are often recommended for children with autism and those who have experienced significant hardship.
3. Beagle
Beagles, with their calm and well-mannered demeanor, are naturally suited for therapy work. These lovable dogs are friendly and social, enjoying both active play and quiet cuddles, which makes them adaptable to individuals with varying energy levels or those who are less mobile. Their compact size also makes them a good option for those living in smaller spaces. Interestingly, Beagles possess a remarkable sense of smell, which, with specialized training, can be utilized for medical alert purposes, such as detecting rapid blood sugar drops. For such specific needs, seeking out Diabetes Assist Dogs might be more appropriate.
4. Poodle
Poodles, often underestimated, are highly intelligent and eager to please, traits that greatly benefit them in therapy roles. Their cooperative nature and high concentration levels facilitate effective training. Poodles exude confidence and courage, making them reliable therapy partners. They can also play a significant role in encouraging positive habits and routines in individuals with disabilities, contributing to their overall well-being.
5. Pug
Pugs, with their cheerful and curious personalities, bring joy and entertainment, making them effective therapy dogs, especially for children with neurodevelopmental disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and they bond well with children. Pugs also possess strong emotional senses, enabling them to provide comfort during times of distress. Their intelligence and sensitivity make them a valuable asset in a therapeutic setting.
6. Greyhound
Despite their athletic build, Greyhounds are known for their calm and gentle temperament, making them excellent therapy dogs. Often former racing dogs, they transition well into providing emotional support. Their affectionate nature and ability to form strong bonds are comforting, and their elegant appearance can be soothing. Greyhounds’ laid-back demeanor offers a calming presence, ideal for therapeutic environments. You can learn more about Bonnie, a greyhound therapy dog, on her blog profile.
7. Boxer
Boxers bring boundless energy and a playful spirit to pet therapy. Their exuberance can lift spirits, and their desire for human closeness makes them ideal companions. Boxers are also sensitive and intuitive, adept at sensing human emotions and offering comfort during difficult times. Their loyalty and protectiveness add to their suitability for various therapeutic situations.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, with their expressive eyes and affectionate nature, are well-suited as therapy dogs. Their gentle and friendly disposition makes them approachable and comforting for all ages. Their small size is advantageous in settings with limited space, such as nursing homes. Cavaliers thrive on interaction and forming close bonds, making them excellent emotional support dogs.
9. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus, with their luxurious coats and charming personalities, are affectionate and gentle therapy dogs. They excel at forming strong connections and possess a friendly nature that offers comfort. Shih Tzus are skilled at sensing moods and are adaptable to various activities, providing both playfulness and a soothing presence.
10. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are charming, loyal, and affectionate therapy dogs. Their small size and low-shedding coats are practical benefits. Yorkies have friendly demeanors suitable for therapy environments and possess keen intelligence, making training straightforward. Their endearing appearance and ability to learn commands further enhance their suitability.
Individual Temperament Matters
While breed tendencies are important, a dog’s individual temperament, behavior, and training are paramount in determining their effectiveness as a therapy animal. It is crucial to assess each dog on a case-by-case basis. Exploring best large breeds for service dogs or best small dog breeds for therapy dogs can offer additional context on breed-specific suitability.
Ensuring Safety in Pet Therapy
Pet therapy is safe when proper hygiene and training protocols are followed. At Focus Care, their therapy dogs are fully trained, immunized, and health-checked. They adhere to strict cleanliness standards and risk elimination measures. Therapy dogs are always accompanied by a trained handler who can interpret and respond to human behaviors effectively.
Pet Therapy in Australia
Currently, Australia has a largely unregulated industry for therapy dogs, with no specific certification required for dogs or owners. While many organizations offer excellent training, it is vital to choose a therapy dog and therapist you trust, verifying their credentials. Susan, a registered counselor and pet therapist at Focus Care, exemplifies the experience required.
Partnering with Focus Care
Focus Care offers pet therapy services for NDIS and Home Care Package clients, as well as private services. They welcome trained therapy dogs and their handlers to join their team, particularly in NSW, Queensland, and Victoria. If you are interested in providing support through animal-assisted therapy or wish to incorporate pet therapy into a personalized support plan, Focus Care encourages you to get in touch.
