What is Canine Assisted Therapy?

What is Canine Assisted Therapy?

Canine Assisted Therapy (CAT) is a unique form of therapy that integrates trained therapy dogs into the healing process.

By working alongside licensed therapists, these compassionate and well-trained dogs help support individuals in overcoming emotional, physical, and psychological challenges.

This innovative approach promotes healing, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.

Why Choose Canine Assisted Therapy?

Why Choose Canine Assisted Therapy?

Proven Effectiveness: Studies and testimonials highlight the positive effects therapy dogs have on emotional, psychological and physical health.
Non-Invasive and Gentle: Therapy dogs provide a natural and non-threatening way to engage with patients, making it accessible for individuals who may feel apprehensive about traditional therapy methods.
Safe and Trustworthy: All therapy dogs are carefully trained to work with professionals, ensuring that interactions are safe, beneficial, and appropriate for all individuals.

Benefits of Canine Assisted Therapy.

Benefits of Canine Assisted Therapy.

 1. Emotional Support and Comfort. Therapy dogs provide immediate emotional support, offering comfort and companionship during therapy sessions. Their calming presence helps reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression, and grief, creating a safe and nurturing environment for healing.

2. Stress Relief and Relaxation. Interacting with dogs has been proven to reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels and increase serotonin and oxytocin, the "feel-good" hormones. This natural relief from stress makes Canine Assisted Therapy an ideal option for individuals dealing with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and grief.

3. Improved Mental Health. Therapy dogs encourage social interaction, communication, and emotional expression, helping individuals address mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and grief. The unconditional love and companionship of a dog can foster trust and openness during therapy sessions.

Kingsley

Kinglsey is River's son, and has his mothers intuition. He is incredibly safe with young children, like his mother, but has a playful nature with adolescents and adults alike. Kingsley has also worked at Victoria Police, working at VPC (Victoria Police Command) as an Engagement dog.

Meadow

Meadow is my Therapy and Assistance dog "trainer", she is safe and stable with all the dogs and people I train for Therapy Dog Training and Assistance Dog Training. She has been with me on my journey as a Counsellor, and I have been lucky enough to work alongside her and River in Counselling sessions. She is soft, caring, playful, and extremely loyal.

River

River is one of the first Court Dogs in Australia. Working in Victoria she has worked in the Coroners Court of Victoria, The Magistrates Court in Collingwood, (NJC) and the County Court in Melbourne CBD. Her ability to use her intuition for clients is inspiring. Please contact us for potential use in Courts. River has also worked at the Victorian Police Academy, and at PRIME at Vic POL. She is an incredible dog.