The JOY Dogs also work as therapy dogs and visit institutions, hospitals, aged care.
We have different options for the JOY Dogs to work as therapy dogs, ranging from a full show with the dogs showing off their tricks, interesting facts about them and the breed and also a display of products made from spun dog hair, or just a visit where everyone can interact with the dogs and touch them and take photos.
If you would like the JOY Dogs to come visit as therapy dogs, please contact us – they would love to spread some JOY with you.
Please call Sue on 082 455 8634
More about therapy dogs:
Dogs have been used for therapy work for a long time now and it has been noted how patients experience a drop in blood pressure, heart rate and general anxiety when they spend time with dogs. Research suggests that hormonal changes occur when humans and dogs interact, which could help people cope with depression and certain stress-related disorders. A few minutes of stroking a dog prompts the release of a number of ”feel good” hormones in people, including serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin. This results in decreased levels of the primary stress hormone cortisol, the adrenal chemical responsible for regulating appetite and cravings for carbohydrates.
The benefits of using therapy dogs – especially in hospitals and institutions but also for aged care.
The dogs uplift the mood of the people.
- Get conversations started.
- A lot more smiles on peoples’ faces when encountering the dogs.
- Bring in more energy to the groups for patients/residents and staff alike.
- Regular visits by staff who can’t wait to see the dogs – they cuddle the dogs and then feel ready to resume work.
- Helps the patients to focus more on group sessions.
- The dogs calm anxious patients/people.
- Always nice for people who are missing their own dogs to have the opportunity to be with the therapy dogs during hospitalisation or institutionalisation.
- Creates a different atmosphere – more casual, feels like home instead of a hospital or institution.
- Makes the people feel important when they meet celebrity dogs.
Special characteristics of the therapy dogs
- Well trained, obedient and disciplined
- Friendly, happy dogs
- Love to meet new people
- Love to be cuddled
- Up to date veterinary requirements vaccinations, disease prevention
- Can work in small spaces
- Can work with other dogs
- Calm nature