Our dogs sit, stay and HEAL…
Based on a facility’s goals and desires, RMTD builds a customized program plan and assigns specific therapy dog teams who would best fit those needs.
After becoming RMTD Certified, a team is identified between two categories depending on what line of work they would be most comfortable and successful in:
Dog Assisted Therapy (DAT) teams are involved in goal-directed treatment plans designed by a professional such as a physical therapist or psychologist. Their interactions support emotional, social, intellectual, and physical growth.
Dog Assisted Activity (DAA) teams offer encouragement through recreational activities. Their interactions are designed to bring joy by channeling the individual’s focus onto something healthy and positive.
As you can see, both styles share the same goal of making people happy and healthy with the support of their furry friends!
Facilities Therapy Dogs Support
There is virtually no limit to the settings where Therapy Dog Teams can bring kisses, wags, joy, hope and comfort. When we come into facilities, we enter hearts. For an updated list on where we are currently serving, please reach out to us today!
Schools and Libraries
Reading becomes more fun when children know an RMTD “teacher’s assistant” visiting the classroom that day will give them a gold star. In local libraries, RMTD Teams add to the joyful family experience of reading together. Who knew that dogs could be such thoughtful literary fans?
Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing
Severe illness and accidents are traumatic, for bodies and minds. The elderly, and people of all ages, need specialized care on many levels in rehabilitation and skilled nursing facilities. Visits by our therapy dog teams bring motivation, hope, relaxation, and sometimes even pain relief. Petting a friendly dog – the ultimate therapy exercise.
Assisted Living, Long Term Care, Memory Care, Hospice
Patients in specialized care facilities aren’t the only residents. Disconnection, loneliness, depression and despair too often call these places home, too. RMTD’s therapy teams come ready to listen to patients’ stories and reminiscences with interest and quiet attention. An RMTD dog may just be sitting quietly, but they are busily chasing away the gloom.
Adult Mental Health
Adults with mental illness, PTSD, or substance use disorders may struggle with anxiety, damaged self-esteem, and depression. Our Therapy Teams bring them unconditional acceptance, and the smiles that give strength for the hard work of recovery.
Adolescent and Children’s Mental Health
Children and adolescent experience mental illness, and often a lack of trust in adults as well. Therapy animals can assist in the establishment of rapport with therapists, help teach important coping skills, and provide safe and loving touch. Their handlers are important models in listening, caring, and support of their animal partners.
Shelters
Men, women, and children who are displaced and in shelters because of homelessness or violence need a reminder of how uniquely important they are. The unconditional attention and affection of an RMTD team can bring smiles and laughter to people who might not have a lot to smile about in their daily lives.
Services for People with Disabilities
For those with disabilities, mental and sensory stimulation, emotional calm and a sense of normalcy can be elusive. But RMTD Therapy Dogs have a nose for finding and retrieving these special gifts.