Therapy Dogs

The first Pyr in Texas to become involved in Therapy work was a young female from Summerhill that lived in the Dallas area. This Pyr visited a children's hospital where an autistic child was one of her regular friends. After months of visiting the child, age about 6 or 7, he spoke his first word when reaching out to touch her face. "Bonnie" he said and the tears flowed freely from the eyes of his therapists and Bonnie's owner. Bonnie was trained to enter the room where the child was and immediately sit. This was a well-known routine to her. However, the first visit to a new child proved beyond doubt that Bonnie was well aware of the special needs of these children. Upon entering the new room Bonnie hesitated and then walked immediately over to the child and sat next to her. Surprised, Bonnie's owner went to retrieve her but the therapist informed her that this child was blind. Somehow, Bonnie knew.

These are but two of thousands of stories involving Great Pyrenees and Therapy. The temperament of calmness, gentleness, patience and intelligence combine to bring comfort to those in need. The opportunities are endless for these dogs and their owners to find real happiness in giving to others. The studies show that when animals are used with people who have physical or emotional pain, there are actual, measurable, improvements physically, and a reaching out for the peace and love they bring. There is an immediate connection made between the dogs and children and when adults are involved the hesitancy felt at first soon gives way as they feel the peace and gentleness of the dog. The dogs bring smiles to the faces of the institutionalized and lonely. They help improve the quality of life for those in need.

There are numerous Therapy Dog Training Groups across the country. For information on how you can be part of this advancement in medicine, I have listed a few numbers below.

Delta Society 1-800-869-6898, Web Site: http://www.deltasociety.org
Joining a Therapy Dog Group, Web Site: http://www.dog-play.com/join.html

Summerhill's Bianca Blossom, Therapy Pet Pals of Texas, visiting her friends at Taylor Care Center, Taylor, TX