Something magical happens when a dog walks into a room. The mood changes and joy and smiles are the focus. The incredible impact that dogs have on people’s well-being is evident in their transformative power, and this includes therapy dogs. David Frei is a prominent figure who has played a key role in harnessing the therapeutic power of dogs.
David Frei’s background:
David Frei, a well-known figure in the canine world for his work as co-host of the National Dog Show and involvement in many dog-related activities, is renowned for being a co-host on NBC’s National Dog Show. David Frei’s passion for dogs extends beyond the glamour of television dog shows. He is also interested in the therapeutic benefits that dogs can bring to people.
The Therapeutic Power of Dogs
Dogs are able to create a positive energy shift, bringing joy and smiles. This phenomenon is more than just companionship. It’s a holistic well-being approach that dogs embody. A biblical verse states that “a faithful friend is medicine for life”, highlighting how having a loyal partner can be healing.
Foundation of Therapy Dog Charity
David Frei, a canine therapist who was passionate about the field, took his commitment to the next level in 2004 by founding “Angel on a Leash”, a charity that raises therapy dogs. The name speaks volumes of the role that dogs play as comforters and soothers for people facing challenges.
Angel the Therapy Dog
Angel, David’s Cavalier King Charles spaniel toy, has become a comforting presence in hospitals. David’s journey to become a therapy dog was shaped by this feisty, yet gentle, companion.
The Therapy Dog Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering
Angel was a part of a program for therapy dogs at the Women’s Health Unit at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Angel comforted patients in this difficult setting. This included those who were undergoing life-changing surgery.
Moments of compassion:
Angel the therapy dog created moments of poignant compassion in healthcare settings. Angel’s presence was a welcomed distraction for patients, whether they were facing a difficult situation or were in good spirits.
Dogs living in the moment:
Like cancer patients, dogs live in the present. The ability to fully be present can provide a respite for individuals who are facing difficulties. This quality is especially important in healthcare environments.
Relationships between Patients and their Personal Support Person:
Angel helped David to build personal relationships with his patients. The therapy dog was able to express love and compassion through shared moments of happiness, laughter, and distraction.
Emotional family gatherings
Angel’s comforting presence in the presence of family members during a particular emotional visit is noteworthy. This emotional experience demonstrated the impact that therapy dogs can make in creating unforgettable and emotionally charged moments.
Unspoken Communication
Unspoken communication is often the norm in therapy dog visits. Angel and other dogs became powerful silent communicators who connected with people on an emotional level.
Endearing Farewells
Therapy dogs like Angel played an important role in certain situations. They provided comfort and solace in these sensitive moments, demonstrating the unique role that they play on the healing journey.
The Healing Journey
This article highlights the profound impact that therapy dogs have on the healing process. Angel, a therapy dog like many others, can bring smiles to people’s faces in times of joy and comfort them in times of sadness.
There is a difference between service dogs and therapy dogs.
The article goes beyond personal experiences to explore the role of therapy animals. The article emphasizes the difference between service dogs and therapy dogs. Service dogs are more focused on providing comfort and support to individuals.
The role of therapy dogs in classrooms
Discussions continue to focus on the important role that therapy dogs play in schools. These canine companions help improve attendance, problem-solving abilities, and overall calmness in students from elementary school to college.
Socio-Emotional Benefits:
Therapy dogs in classrooms have a positive impact on socio-emotional growth. Their non-judgmental company fosters connection, reduces negative behaviors, and improves mental health. This article highlights how therapy dogs can help children develop important social skills.
Cognitive Benefits:
The cognitive benefits of interacting with therapy dogs are outlined, encompassing improved reading skills, enhanced executive-functioning skills, and stimulation of memory and problem-solving skills. It has been shown that the presence of therapy animals in educational environments can improve attention, motivation, and concentration while reducing stress.
Research Studies Supporting Benefits:
The article provides research studies to support these claims. The National Institute of Health published a study in 2019 that attests the anti-stress and positive mood effects of therapy animals in classrooms. A University of California study also shows that students who participate in canine-assisted reading programs have a noticeable increase in their reading fluency.
Benefits to School Students
We highlight the proven benefits of school therapy dog programs, such as increased motivation for learning and attendance, positive behavior changes, and an increase in confidence. Positive experiences with therapy animals lead to improved relationships between students and teachers, and reduced anxiety in learners.
Problems and Solutions
The article discusses issues like sanitation and dog temperaments to ensure safety. The article introduces the Alliance of Therapy Dogs to help address these concerns. It emphasizes careful selection, certification, and training of therapy dogs.
Benefits to University Students
Therapy dogs have a positive impact on university students. Therapy dog interactions have been shown to reduce anxiety and stress among university students. This leads to an increase in energy and happiness.
The benefits of therapy dogs:
We discuss the broader benefits of therapy animals, highlighting their role in teaching social skills, improving interpersonal skills and developing empathy. Globally, the demand for therapy dogs programs in schools and colleges is a sign of the increasing awareness that these canine companions enhance student engagement and wellbeing.
Alliance of Therapy Dogs – Role
The Alliance of Therapy Dogs was introduced as an international registry which plays a vital role in supporting the therapy dog teams. The alliance’s services, such as registration, testing and certification, insurance and support, help to build a network of caring dog owners and special dogs who are eager to spread joy to individuals from all age groups.
Global demand for therapy dog programs:
The final section highlights the growing global demand for programs involving therapy dogs in educational settings. The positive impact that these programs have on student engagement, overall wellbeing and well-being is increasingly recognized by schools and universities.
The article concludes by illustrating the many benefits that therapy dogs bring to human life. It does this through personal experiences, research, and a wider societal context.
