Therapy Dogs

A number of studies have found that just being around a dog or petting a dog can lower blood pressure. One study found the same with a pet goat. Another found that simply watching a Lassie movie was enough to lower stress.

Well we haven’t got a pet goat at our practice Tri-City Psychology Services, but we do have therapy dogs!

Over the years we have observed the special fondness and respect our clients develop for our dogs.

Many clients starting therapy are unsure and nervous on their first visit.

We want very much for our new clients to feel safe and comfortable, and aim to set them at their ease from the moment they first step through our door.

We have worked hard to achieve this by creating an inviting and calming office space, a dog picks up on any nervousness in a person, and our little greeters are there ready and eager to help clients through that first uncertain encounter.

Sadly in August we had to say goodbye to first therapy dog, Portia (a stalwart Scottish Terrier) who succumbed to kidney disease.

Mac our younger Scotty, missed her terribly. We knew it would just be a matter of time before we got another dog.

Lola  and Kathy

Lola & Kathy

And so this week little Lola has joined us. Lola is a cute as a button West Highland Terrier. She still has to learn the ropes ~ as therapy dogs must learn to ignore loud noises, stay calm and definitely not be barking mad ;). They also have to learn not to bother any people who don’t want to be bothered. Above all they have to be friendly and comfortable socializing with strangers.