Dog Therapy Program
The Solterra at Home Therapy Dog Visitation Program
Our pioneer therapy dog program has been exploding with success! Our Solterra at Home Therapy Dog Teams are currently visiting senior facilities and private homes throughout Denver Metro. We are impacting seniors throughout the community with each powerful visit. We'd love to send a team out to you.
What is a therapy dog?
A therapy dog is a dog trained to provide affection and comfort to people. Solterra at Home's Therapy Dogs and Handlers go through a rigorous testing and evaluation process. They are then enrolled at Solterra at Home University to receive further training in serving the senior population and those in end-of-life care. Our teams are friendly, patient, gentle and love human contact.
Why a therapy dog?
The human-dog connection is powerful. Dogs are loyal companions that shower us with unconditional love. There is no judgment and no expectation except to want to be your lovable friend. Studies have shown that interactions with a dog can decrease heart rate and blood pressure (Steed & Smith 2002). Cases have been cited where the use of dogs in senior settings can increase mental stimulation and social interaction (Buettner & Martindale 2008), elevate positive mood levels (Lutwack-Bloom, Wijewickrama, & Smith 2005), and reduce loneliness (Banks & Banks 2005). gThese beneficial effects have also been documented with those affected with Alzheimer's Disease (Buttram, D. 2004).
Our therapy dogs can provide a bridge of communication to trigger reminiscing pleasant memories of the past. They can also create a safe environment where seniors feel accepted and appreciated.
How does it work?
Our therapy dog teams consist of the therapy dog and its handler. These teams will come and visit you in the comfort of your private home or in your senior community. Our therapy dogs would love to cuddle up with you. Would you like to try a free visit?
