The Different Conditions Therapy Dogs Help Treat

Alzheimer's Disease

While guide dogs for the blind are well-known, and mobility dogs for those with limited mobility and hearing assistance dogs are becoming better known, the public is only just becoming aware of the role of therapy dogs in assisting individuals who suffer from mental problems. The dogs for Alzheimer's Disease have a particular purpose, trained to take their owners home when the patient forgets where they are. Dogs thrive on routine and predictability, hence why they are a wonderful addition to a patient with Alzheimer's life, as these are often the things patient's struggle with. The canines are trained to help their humans throughout the day. This can be by opening the cupboard which contains food and a prominent note reminding the owner to eat as well. An electronic timer can be used to teach a dog when to bring a dog-safe bag of medicine to the patient. Another tone can prompt the assistance dog to walk the owner to the bathroom where other notes can be left with care instructions.

Keep reading to uncover how a therapy dog can greatly improve the life of a child who is on the Autism Spectrum.