Bonnie;
the therapy dog
Benefits of a therapy dog
Animals provide a sense of security and emotional support. Dogs offer unconditional acceptance and positive regard.
Animals help improve motivation and engagement in therapy.
Animals can promote relaxation. Research has demonstrated that petting an animal can help lower blood pressure, heart rate, and increase oxytocin (a feel-good chemical in the brain).
Animals can help the client learn frustration tolerance and other anger management techniques.
Animals can help in the areas of focus and attention.
Animals can be instruments of learning, which can increase self-confidence and self-esteem.
Animals offer humor and fun due to their playful nature.
Animals in therapy ask for clients to develop empathy, nurturance, and responsibility, and model other skills like forgiveness and patience.
About Bonnie
Bonnie is a young Labrador retriever. I got her from a service animal trainer, Foliage Retrievers. They decided she wasn’t meant to be a service animal and would be better suited as a therapy dog. Before coming to work with me, she spent 3 months at summer camp in New Hampshire working with kids. During her time she focused on socialization and obedience. Bonnie is looking forward to continuing to train in an office setting to support people in therapy.
What Bonnie enjoys when she isn’t working
Cuddling
Spending time with friends and family
Volunteering at schools in the area
Chewing on benebones
Eating sticks in the yard
