On Mar. 6, 2017, the speaker was Laura Brewer, who is the Therapy Dog Program Coordinator for the St. John Ambulance in New Brunswick.
The St. John Ambulance is an organization that started more than 900 years ago. Formerly the organization was known as a group of first responders. Many things have changed, and St. John Ambulance is now involved with many different programs, including the Therapy Dog Program that commenced in 2006.
Laura explained the importance of distinguishing between a therapy dog and a service dog. Therapy dogs are privately owned, wear a kerchief and can be petted; service dogs are for assistance, wear a vest, and should never be petted...
Almost any breed can be used as a therapy dog, but the dog must be well-mannered, safe, friendly with strangers, controllable as well as be up-to-date with immunization.
Therapy dogs have made a difference in the lives of many patients who have difficulty connecting with staff and their surroundings.
One of the challenges of getting the dog therapy program off the ground was the belief that dogs would lead to a higher rate of infection and disease in hospitals and nursing homes. Research has shown that this is not true; however, just like anyone who visits or works in a hospital, proper precautions are necessary for both the dog, the handler, and the patients.
Our own Rotarian Cindy Dubois volunteers with her dogs.
Rotarian Ian Smyth thanked Laura.