Facility Therapy Dogs
Facility therapy dogs have been through the PADS training program. These are generally dogs with sensitive, social temperaments and a limited number of skills. These special dogs work with a handler that is trained by PADS. The handler can be an employee in a residential or long term care facility, counsellors, therapists or a psychologist whose patients would benefit from the assistance of a calm, social and trained therapy dog. The work of a facility therapy dog can include visitations or professional therapy in one or more locations. Public access is permitted only when the dog and handler are working directly with a client with a disability. Many of our dogs, like Zephyr, facilitate therapy by becoming a social icebreaker in often difficult counselling and group sessions - trust is formed quickly when a dog is involved and patients (and staff alike) quickly see the benefits a dog brings to the environment.
SPECIAL SKILLED THERAPY DOGS
On occasion we have a dog that we discover is unsuitable for the service dog program late in their training. They have a high level of skill, which can be put to use in a therapeutic setting where their extensive skills training would be asset. In this case the dogs advanced skills are used within a goal oriented treatment plan alongside a healthcare professional to help facilitate physical therapy or injury recovery by assisting with and encouraging participation. A dog like PADS Special Skilled Therapy Dog 'Rowan' can help develop upper body strength by tugging a rope, yet because of her training, has the control to tug or let go when instructed.
If you are interested in applying for a PADS Facility/Therapy dog please go to Apply for a Dog.