By: Shayna Hillenberg, MSW, LMSW

What Is a Therapy Dog?
A therapy dog is a specially trained animal that provides comfort, support, and affection to people in various settings such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes, libraries, and mental health facilities. While they are not a substitute for mental health professionals, therapy dogs play a valuable role in enhancing well-being and therapeutic outcomes.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs:

Mental Health Support
Therapy dogs help reduce anxiety and stress by offering unconditional companionship.

• Their calming presence increases oxytocin, which promotes a sense of safety and connection.
• Interaction with dogs can boost serotonin and dopamine levels, helping regulate mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Physical Health Benefits
Therapy dogs encourage movement and promote healthy routines.

• Activities like walking, grooming, or playing fetch can increase physical activity.
• Regular exercise improves overall health and enhances mood.

Social and Behavioral Benefits
Therapy dogs help develop social and emotional skills.

• They reduce social anxiety and act as natural conversation starters.
• Interacting with dogs fosters empathy, compassion, and awareness of non-verbal cues.
• Their non-judgmental nature helps boost confidence and create a sense of safety and trust.

Therapeutic Activities with Therapy Dogs
Here are a few examples of how therapy dogs can be included in therapy or learning sessions:

• Petting or cuddling for emotional support
• Practicing social skills like taking turns or following directions
• Playing interactive games such as hide-and-seek
• Teaching the dog a new trick as a skill-building exercise
• Desensitization exercises for reducing fear or anxiety triggers
• Mindfulness activities such as:
  • Mindful walks
  • Focused breathing with the dog present
  • Mindful petting to stay present in the moment
  • Observing and naming emotions

Final Thoughts:

Therapy dogs are gentle, supportive companions that bring emotional, physical, and social benefits to people of all ages. Their presence can help create a warm, safe environment where healing and growth can thrive.

If you feel like you or somebody you care about is in need of additional support, CFSC is here for you. Please call us at 248-851-5437 to get started with supportive services.