My Dog Has Been Asked To Be A Therapy Dog For A Day. How Can I Prepare?
Filed under Care & Training Q&As
Well, sort of.
An old aunty of mine is currently in a nursing home in Bristol (England). My family and I should be going to see her soon. We asked if we could bring our dog, Hooch, as she was always an animal lover and they say they very much welcome animals under one condition: that the owners let the dog meet all the other residents, because some have had dogs in the past, miss them, and rarely get a chance to see them/pet them, so it’s a lovely opportunity for them. Another relative of ours often takes her Greyhound over there so they’re definitely allowed. I have considered getting Hooch assesed to see if he’d be eligible to become as PAT dog, as he’s so great with people, but it’s one of those things you plan to get around to doing but never do.
I have no problem taking him round to see all the other residents of the home. It’d be great if we could cheer them up and Hooch would love the attention. It’s just I have never done anything like this before. My dog is well-trained around people, very obedient and loving, but is there anything specific I should be doing? I just don’t quite know what they’re expecting of us. He’s not a trained therapy dog and I’ve done nothing like this before, so it’s definitely an informal arrangement. Do I just take him round to each of the people one by one and just let them stroke him and talk to him? A lot of the people in this home are really ill – dementia, strokes, all sorts.
Just a little nervous and would be grateful for any tips or advice.
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First, introduce yourself and your dog. Second, ask if they would like pet him. Third, have a list of open-ended (not yes or no) questions you can ask, such as “what kind of pets did you have when you were growing up” or “do you like tv -what’s your favorite show.” Fourth, don’t allow your dog to get on the bed for sanitary reasons. Fifth, give him a bath and trim his nails before going. Sixth, bring a soft hair brush along and ask if they would like to brush him. Seventh, bring some treats and ask if they would like to give him some. Eighth, put two leashes on your dog and ask if they would like to take him for a walk. Ninth, be sure he goes to the bathroom before entering the home. Tenth, be aware of the body language of both your dog and the individual – if you sense any tension, end the visit.
Have fun.
I take Toby for therapy, and give him a light walk not too long before, so he’s not too hyper, but not too tired.
When I go, I get taken to one of the rooms where alot of people are, and you can tell by their faces and what not who wants to see him. just walk him over to them, and tell him to sit, and if they want they’ll pat him or give him a cuddle, some won’t pat him, but they’ll admire, and ask questions, and just ask who wants to pat him, and they’ll say.
Dogs have a sense, they’ll pull towards someone, and know not to jump. Don’t be nervous, they’ll be very happy to see a doggy!
It always cheers up the ederly at my mums work, and I’ve struck up a few friendships, even when I’m young! You’ll love it, and so will he.
I always take a few treats for them to give him, but at my mums work, you’re not allowed to let them take him for a walk for safety.