HOSPITAL SUPPORT DOG

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A hospital support dog is a specially trained dog that provides emotional, psychological, and even physical support to patients and family members within a hospital setting. While their roles can vary depending on the needs of the hospital, these dogs are generally trained to perform specific tasks that contribute to a more supportive and healing environment. Here's how a Pawsability hospital support dog makes a difference:

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Emotional Support for Patients

• Encouragement: For patients undergoing therapy or treatment, a dog can motivate them to stay positive and engaged in their recovery process.

• Pain Management: Interaction with a dog can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.

• Stress Relief: Hospital environments can be intense and emotionally taxing Spending time with a support dog can help release endorphins, distraction for children and improve mental well-being.

• Comfort in Difficult Times: Family members and friends visiting loved ones in the hospital may experience anxiety, sadness or sleep deprivation. A support dog can provide solace and distraction.

 

Specialised Assistance

The support dog helps assess and alert the handler to the patient's anxiety levels. By engaging the patient in a task, the dog provides a calming distraction, fostering connection and reducing anxiety. This enables the patient to feel more at ease and cooperate during procedures.

 

Characteristics of Hospital Support Dogs:

Hospital support dogs are calm, gentle, intuitive, well-socialized, and mature. They are responsive to cues and can handle the busy, noisy environments typical in a hospital setting. Breeds commonly chosen for their temperament include Australian Cobberdogs, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, or mixed breeds that are naturally attuned to human emotions and body language.

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Programs and Certification:

They undergo rigorous training and certification to ensure they are well-behaved and suited for medical environments.