Paws for People brings together therapy dogs and people in a warm, non-threatening manner, allowing them to interact positively through use of a controlled and friendly approach. Qualified and experienced handlers enjoy assisting their highly trained and well-socialised dogs in interacting positively with young and old alike, many of whom have varying degrees of mental, psychological or physical disabilities as a result of trauma, injury, aging, illness etc. Handlers have trained with their dogs for many, many hours, so that they interact well, are well-socialised and desensitized to the various stimuli (people, other animals and environmental factors) they face. Most importantly it is important that they LOVE their 'job' being a therapy dog. Paws for People Therapy dogs are in perfect health, well-socialised and have a balanced temperament to be an ongoing source of comfort, care, compassion, love, stimulation and unconditional positive regard to those they visit. The Paws for Africa pet education programs, aim not just to educate children but the general public at large too. Objectives include Teaching safety and building confidence and respect around dogs and other animals (using and incorporating the “Be a Tree” and “Be a Tortoise” programs), R.E.A.D. programs (Reading Education Assistance Dogs) building confidence and self-esteem, learning respect and trust as well as effective conflict resolution and ways of dealing with anxiety and depression.
See all my PAWsome therapy dog photos on Facebook :-)
<PAWS FOR PEOPLE THERAPY DOGS visit RAINBOW DAY CARE CENTRE>
<PAWS FOR PEOPLE THERAPY DOGS visit RAINBOW DAY CARE CENTRE>
<Paws for People visit various institutions & events>
<Gumby & Daisy Therapy Dogs at work - Photos by Emma O'Brien>
<Rainbow Day Care Centre, P4P visit>
