by Teresa Milewski

Created on: July 28, 2010

Pet Therapy is an amazing tool to reach the young and old alike. If you ever felt the need to "give back" - there is nothing more gratifying then taking your dog to visit a senior center. It is important that your dog either have a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate or if you feel that your dog is a natural candidate for the job, you can sign up for a program at many shelters-and they will access your dog's ability during a trial period.

It is important that your dog not only be friendly and know all the basic commands, but they must also display the same good traits when approached by walkers, wheelchairs or other obstacles to reach that "friend" on the other side. It would also be a good idea to get your dog accustomed to the elevator as many times the assisted living residents are on another floor. These residents usually have even less of a chance to venture out and will really enjoy a visit.

My own dog, an American Mastiff, has been visiting a senior center for about eight months now. Although, therapy dogs come in all sizes-it does seem that a large dog can have an advantage. Her height makes it very easy for residents to reach down and pet when they are leaning from a cane or walker. She has also been used to help residents in therapy sessions when the exercise calls for reaching and arm extensions. Many residents are just in awe of her size and so she does generate a lot of excitement and enthusiasm on her visits as residents will also invite family members to come and see her-kids, grand kids, etc -another therapy plus!

If you have a dog as large as mine (at 170 plus pounds), it is imperative that your dog also know how to maneuver around tight areas as you may need to visit from table to table in a group setting such as at Bingo Time. It can be tricky to make your way around the room without stepping on any toes!

Once you begin making visits, it is very important to keep your schedule and be on time as sometimes you are the highlight of someone's day-and you certainly do not want to disappoint! Be sure to also think of what your dog can handle as far as lots of social stimulation-know when its time to end the visit and be sure to keep some cool water in the car for your pup to enjoy before the ride home.

The only thing I would have done different in training my dog is learning the handshake! I would have skipped this as its a tricky gesture for a giant dog and a sometimes frail companion. It never fails now that a resident wants to shake with her because they saw her do it before and it can sometimes bring them good luck in Bingo-or so I am told!

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