by Lisa A. Beach
Two years back, Maddie, a yellow Labrador, was discovered abandoned on the side of the road alongside her ten puppies. Fortunately, they were rescued by Canine Soulmates, a foster organization in Hurst. It was there that Maddie, now four years old, found a second chance when she was adopted by Jane Nolan.
Instead of simply enjoying her new life, Maddie embraced her fresh start by choosing to help others. Collaboratively, Maddie and Jane serve as a therapy dog team under Pet Partners, a prominent organization specializing in animal-assisted therapy.
“Maddie possesses a temperament that is not only gentle but also incredibly kind,” Jane remarked. “Finding a dog that is both calm and approachable isn’t always easy.”
Dr. Brian Benjamin of the Ohio Drive Animal Hospital in Plano concurs, emphasizing the importance of a suitable temperament in therapy animals.
“A therapy animal must not have issues with trust,” Dr. Benjamin noted. “Moreover, behavioral training can ensure the animal remains patient, is undeterred by loud sounds, and avoids aggressive behavior.”
To earn her certification as a therapy dog, Maddie underwent assessment and training through A New Leash on Life, a McKinney branch of Pet Partners. After a comprehensive evaluation of her physical and behavioral state, along with six months of training in obedience, social skills, and proper behavior, Maddie was approved to begin her work.
Therapy Animals Provide Remarkable Support
Maddie and Jane make regular visits to local hospitals, retirement communities, and various facilities where the uplifting impact of human-animal interaction can be transformative. “We strive to provide a sense of normalcy and comfort to those we visit,” Jane explained, noting that patients often endure a repetitive routine filled with tests, medication, and therapies.
Therapy animals play a crucial role in alleviating feelings of grief, stress, and isolation, which is why Flora Ellias, the receptionist at Dr. Benjamin’s office, brings her three-year-old Irish Wolfhound, Sheldon, to meet patients via the Vitas Hospice Paw Pals Program.
“The bond people develop with the dogs is evident,” Flora shared, recalling her experiences taking Sheldon on hospice visits multiple times a month over the last two years. “Some patients who usually remain silent begin to speak when dogs are present, while others with mobility challenges interact through petting or grooming. Even patients with Alzheimer’s have moments where they recall pets from their childhood.”
Dr. Benjamin highlighted the therapeutic benefits animals bring to individuals. “Research indicates that simply petting a dog or listening to a cat purr can trigger the release of endorphins that enhance an individual’s emotional state.”
Jane Nolan Has Observed These Benefits Up Close
“During a visit to the oncology unit at Children’s Medical Center, I met a five-year-old boy who had lost his sight and felt quite ill,” Jane reminisced. “As he stroked Maddie, trying to visualize her, I asked, ‘Do you trust me and Maddie?’ He replied, ‘Sure.’ I suggested we play a game where he would touch her and describe what he felt. When he realized he was touching Maddie’s head, he said it felt like her heart because she was so soft. It was such an insightful response, and it helped him relax. That moment was truly special.”
Think therapy animals are limited to dogs? Think again! A wide range of animals can serve in this capacity, including cats, pigs, ponies, birds, guinea pigs, and rabbits.
Contact your local Pet Partners chapters for more information:
Delta Hearts of Gold, Aledo, (817) 291-5994
Angel Paws, McGregor, (254) 744-9926
A New Leash on Life, McKinney, (972) 740-8722
