Therapy Dog Program

PAWS is moving into Therapy.  After being assessed and tested there are now seven dogs that have graduated and are Certified to do therapy work in town.   A couple of the dogs, Amica and Casey, are already enjoying visits at Swan Valley Lodge.  The others will be scheduled in the fall.
 
A therapy dog offers the most important gifts of companionship, and unconditional love that will dispel loneliness, depression and/or anxiety that is so often the lot of people in shelters, care facilities or group homes.  Dogs are a proven means of opening the communication channels, by starting conversations between people, thus building friendships and confidence.  Just a few moments of petting, a head on the lap or the look of those soft warm eyes are enough to break many barriers.  These dogs have a calming effect on troubled souls. They don't recognize that you have a disability or that you're different in any way, they see you for who you are, nothing less.  Sometimes, people don't even know they are being helped.
 
Each pet must pass certain tests that reveal whether the animal is calm in stressful, noisy and new situations.  They must enjoy being given attention from people while sitting quietly, and they must accept other animals, such as cats, rabbits, birds and other dogs, around them.
 
This can be a very rewarding way to spend some volunteer time and spend time with your pet.  There are few things more rewarding than seeing an animal put a smile on someone’s face.
 
If you’re interested in doing pet therapy with your pet, it doesn’t have to be a dog. If you would like to have your facility visited by these special pets, then please call PAWS at 250-428-7297 for more information.  We’ll be glad to help!