Local Dog Becomes Certified as a Therapy Dog and Helps Others in Prowers County

Piper is a two year old Yellow Lab. Piper is a calm loving dog. Before becoming certified as a Therapy Dog, Piper spent 30 days of intense obedience training through the Canine Companion Program. Piper has brought happiness to people with several health issues including depression, paralysis, cancer, Cerebral Palsy, high blood pressure, Parkinson’s, Attention Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Alzheimer’s. Piper has served as a benefit with speech, occupational, and physical therapy. Piper is familiar with wheel chairs, crutches, walkers, and prosthetics.

Services available include volunteering at assisted living, nursing homes, hospitals, schools, libraries, and private homes. Studies showed a decrease in blood pressure and stress levels during Therapy Dog visits. Therapy Dogs have increased happiness, calmness, and general emotional well-being. Therapy Dogs encourage therapeutic healing because the patient is able touch and pet the dog which promotes happiness. Therapy Dogs also offer a break from daily loneliness.

Reading with Therapy Dogs is a magnificent opportunity for a student to build their imagination while developing skills for the future. The simple presence of a dog increases morale. Therapy Dogs deliver a relaxed and “dog-friendly” atmosphere, which permits students to practice the skill of reading. Students are often self-conscious when reading aloud in front of classmates. By sitting down beside the dog and reading to the dog, all fears of being criticized are ignored. The student relaxes, pets the observant dog, and concentrates on the reading. Reading skills are increased while building self-esteem and having fun.

To have Piper visit your organization email: pipers_therapy@hotmail.com