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The use of canines to help mankind is known throughout the world.  Although the bond between dog and man dates back to early history, it wasn’t until relatively recently that a correlation was acknowledged between this bond and the emotional health of humans. Studies have shown that holding or petting an animal will cause a lowering of blood pressure, the release of strain and tension, and can also draw out a person from loneliness and depression. Dogs are also used in their capacity as 'good listeners' to be an audience for children who have difficulty with or lack of motivation for reading aloud.

There are many different organizations involved in registering and certifying dogs for therapy work. Therapy Dogs International is one of the oldest. TDI was founded in 1976 by a registered nurse who observed the benefits of pets interacting with patients when she noticed how her patients reacted to the daily visits of the chaplain and his companion, a golden retriever.

Therapy Dogs International, Inc. was formed so that dogs could be certified, insured and registered as volunteer therapy dogs. The goal of the organization is to unite and increase the number of available therapy dogs, give them the recognition they deserve, and to alert hospitals and other institutions to the importance of therapy dog visits to their patients. The dogs used for therapy work vary in size and type. They may not all be "pure-bred," but they all have a love of people. Weimaraners as a breed are typically very 'tuned in' to the emotions of people and because of that, Weimaraners with a friendly and confident nature are often well suited to therapy work. However, if those Weimaraners are highly energetic, a Therapy Dog career may be have to be pursued in their later years once they are more content with sedentary pastimes.

Regular visits from Therapy Dogs and their handlers provide stimulation for conversation in mental health counseling. TDI dogs can even encourage interest in physical therapy. (Not only does petting a dog’s shiny coat feel good, it can be used as the basis for exercise and a reason to start physical therapy.)

TDI dogs elevate the mood of the facility in general and specifically with the staff and residents’ family members. Families feel better having their loved one live in a facility where the staff cares enough to arrange Therapy Dog visits.

REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION WITH TDI

The handler and dog must pass the TDI test requirements and the AKC Canine Good Citizen test as well as to provide proof of health, up to date vaccination status and three letters of recommendation.

www.traxweimaraners.com