Therapy Dogs: Bringing Joy to Those Who Need it Most

Most people have either received or know someone who has received therapy in their lifetime. Whether it’s physical therapy or emotional therapy, it can be an important part of the healing process.

Have you ever heard of therapy using dogs? Many people haven’t, but those who have experienced this therapy know just how valuable the experience can be. On Saturday, Sept. 24 the Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs came to visit the Matawan Aberdeen Public Library, bringing their owners with them to explain the program and a day in the life of a therapy puppy. The downstairs events room had a filled audience, including a girl scout troupe, local residents and other dog owners interested in become therapy-dog parents.

Bob and Kathy Mevel, both residents of Howell and owners of the therapy dogs Coda and Cory, explained how a basic obedience training program led them to train their dogs to handle therapy sessions.

While attending the basic obedience training programs, the couple stumbled upon therapy dogs training in the same facitily.

Teaching a dog to handle loud or busy situations, such as people using walkers in the hospital or machines constantly beeping, in addition to being able to walk past food without trying to eat it, is a challenge that the Mevels welcomed with open arms.

“They’re good with most things. There is one surprising thing that can startle them, balloons,” explained Bob.

The therapy dogs visit hospitals, nursing homes and other care facilities in the area. Just being able to hold and pet the animals gives people a chance to forget where they are, remember their own pets and escape their own medical reality, even if for just a moment.

Currently, they are active in some Meridian Facilities and looking to start a program in Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank. If you think your dog has what it takes to be a therapy dog, then check out this home self-test, and be sure to contact the Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs at Info@Golden-Dogs.org.