My Therapy Dog Genie
Genie, Therapy Dog 6 years old
When I was working in a skilled nursing home I was in charge of their pet therapy program. I was graced with the privilege to foster Genie, a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Monday through Friday I would take Genie into the skilled nursing home and escort her around to resident’s rooms. Later in my career I realized (and now I often kid), that she was a better therapist than me. Why is that, well she was able to reach people that I could not. To see the face of an individual with advanced dementia react to the presence of Genie was always a beautiful sight to see. Her calm demeanor, soft coat, and attentive nature brightened every person's day in that facility.
Modern research and pet therapist based practices all now have definitive data to show the psychological benefits of having a pet in our lives. This is not to say that our pets don’t also come with a certain level of stress, but it is my belief that their benefits greatly outweigh the associated effort. Here are a few benefits to having a dog in your life.
STRESS REDUCTION
Cortisol is known as a “stress hormone”, and too much cortisol has numerous impacts on our well-being. Over the recent years there has been a lot of research on how petting an animal can reduce stress. For example Scientist Daily explains, “Just 10 minutes of interacting with cats and dogs produced a significant reduction in students' cortisol, a major stress hormone.” Genie did this for countless residents, and for myself as well. Genie and dogs like her play a vital role for those seeking emotional support and companionship.
INCREASE EXERCISE
When we have a dog it is essential that we take them for walks for exercise and life enrichment. This by proxy is also benefiting ourselves. People who are often isolated or work long hours, have this necessary task that also benefits their physical and mental health. The simple act of a walk has obvious physical benefits. When I fostered Genie I was a full time college student also working a full time job. Our daily walks and exercise allowed me to help her while helping myself.
Genie enjoying the park with her foster sister Odesa.
SOCIALIZATION
There is also the human interaction when walking a dog say if you come along another person and their dog. Good pet ownership includes socialization of your pet and this is especially important with dogs. While you are socializing your dog you too are getting socialized which can have added benefits for your mental health. As a therapist working with Genie I was able to see the direct benefits of her socialization with clients.
Genie dressing up for an event at work.
TEACHES RESPONSIBILITY
This is for adults and children alike. For many children a dog is the first time their parents give them a responsibility in which another creature needs their attention directly. Tasking a child to walk, feed, or cleanup after a pet is a valuable skill going into adulthood. Genie taught me a different level of responsibility. Although she stayed at our house for nights and weekends she also had a day job. Even on my days off I was responsible to drive her to work.
Genie after a hard day’s work. Being responsible isn’t always fun.
SENSE OF SECURITY
Some people that live alone benefit greatly from having a dog in the home. Some breeds add a level of security to their home but it is important to understand the breed you adopt and ensure that it matches your current and future lifestyle. Genie’s breed fit well with our family and other pets. She loved children and other animals but also provided a sense of security for our family.
Genie enjoying family time with her foster mom.
