How therapy dogs are transforming lives in Philadelphia prisons

Earlier this year, the Philadelphia Department of Prisons (PDP) and its healthcare partner YesCare announced a partnership with Comfort Caring Canines that introduce therapeutic dogs to the PDP jail population—offering a new approach to emotional support and comfort. Therapy dogs offer many benefits to the incarcerated population. Mentally, their presence helps reduce stress and anxiety while improving […]

Study: Therapy dogs help kids in ER skip anxiety meds

A new study from Wayne State University finds that therapy dogs may be just what the doctor ordered for kids experiencing anxiety in the emergency room. Research shows around 15% of children need medication or physical restraint just to get through treatment in the ER, adding to an already stressful situation for them and their parents. […]

See the ways your health improves when you have a dog as a companion

That old saying: “the dog is man’s best friend” is not joking! Many believe that having a dog improves mental health, as well as providing companionship. Studies show that dog owners have a lower risk of death from various causes, primarily due to increased physical activity that dogs encourage, helping to lower blood pressure and reduce the […]

Research shows why you should always pet your dog before leaving the house

One of the most wonderful things about having a dog is how attached they become to their owners. I work from home and my Jack Russel terrier, Scout, lies next to me on his bed for most of the day. The only time he leaves my office is for a sip of water or to […]

Dogs Paired With Providers at Hospitals Help Ease Staff and Patient Stress

DENVER — Outside HCA HealthONE Rose medical center, the snow is flying. Inside, on the third floor, there’s a flurry of activity within the labor and delivery unit. This article is from a partnership that includes CPR News, NPR, and KFF Health News. It can be republished for free. “There’s a lot of action up here. It can […]

Students raise petition for in-training service dogs in dorms

Students are discussing the topic of having dogs and service animals in training on campus, arguing they should be allowed in Ohio University residence halls. The current policy states animal pets are generally not permitted within OU buildings or vehicles, with some exceptions. An exception is made for service or assistance animals, and although service animals in […]

Study Shows That Dogs Can Smell Trauma

Dogs have served as man’s best friend for thousands of years. They have been guardians, herders, hunters, and beloved companions for generations upon generations. In modern times, they are often considered part of the family. However, there are still some dogs with jobs to do, from emotional support dogs to airport-sniffing dogs. Some dogs are service […]

How therapy dogs bring healing to Western Pa. funeral homes

Seeing a dog in a funeral home is not what most people might expect — but Judy Ryave McGuire, director of aftercare and community outreach for Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. in Shadyside, and Laney, a 6-year-old goldendoodle, are a therapy team who provide comfort at funerals. “Laney just knows how to comfort people just by […]

Firefighter and Therapy Dog: A Bond Beyond Duty

At Charlotte Firehouse 27, a unique partnership has become a beacon of hope and mental health awareness. Firefighter Matthew Wiatrowski and his therapy dog, Phoenix, are not just colleagues in service; they are a testament to Charlotte Fire Department‘s commitment to mental health and the transformative power of the K9 Therapy Program. Matthew Wiatrowski, originally from […]

Why Pets Are Good for Your Mental Health

Most pet owners would agree that spending time with furry family members is a joyful and healing experience. And while there’s no shortage of anecdotal evidence that our pets make us happy, there is a growing body of research that helps explain how they benefit our mental health and overall wellness, also known as the […]