A Little Help From Our Friends: Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort and Joy
Rookie likes to have those he visits believe they are training him by sitting for a treat. photo: Angela Gardner
Every Thursday three working dogs clock in at the San Rafael Healthcare and Wellness Center and wait for the nursing staff to finish their stand-up morning meeting. The center welcomes these exceptional therapy dogs - Molly the Border Collie, Riley the Golden Retriever, and Rookie the Beagle mix - who spend the day bringing comfort and joy to those in need.
The three dogs are part of the Golden Paws Pet Therapy Dog Program, an initiative of the nonprofit organization Buddha and Me, dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals in hospice or dementia care and those facing crisis. The program’s mission is to provide emotional support and comfort through the unique bond between humans and animals by harnessing the therapeutic potential of pets.
Many studies have shown that interactions with therapy dogs can lead to improved moods, decreased feelings of isolation, and even physical benefits such as lowered blood pressure. But the impact of Molly, Riley, and Rookie’s work is best understood through the stories of those they have touched. Residents often speak of the joy and comfort the dogs bring, describing moments of connection that brighten their days and lift their spirits.
The program is the brainchild of Mark Lammers whose passion for animal-assisted therapy has been a driving force behind its success. With a background in hospice, cognitive care, program management, and innovative healthcare solutions, coupled with a deep understanding of the therapeutic benefits of human-animal interactions, Mark has found the perfect way to blend his two passions: health care and pets.
As a trainer specializing in therapy and service dog training, I am proud to be part of this work myself. I assess each dog and work on public access training in group settings in my classes. In addition, as an American Kennel Club Evaluator, I am able to train and evaluate each dog for the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test. With an approach rooted in positive reinforcement, we ensure that each therapy dog is not only well trained but is genuinely attuned to the needs of the individuals they serve.
Molly, Riley, and Rookie are the heart and soul of the Golden Paws Pet Therapy Dog Program, but each approaches the work with their own unique personality. Molly, with her calm demeanor and intuitive nature, has a special way of connecting with individuals in hospice and dementia care. Her presence alone evokes smiles and a sense of peace, providing a nonverbal form of communication that transcends the barriers of illness and age.
Riley is known for her playful nature and affectionate personality. Her interactions are particularly impactful in crisis situations where her gentle demeanor and comforting presence help to ease anxiety and provide emotional support.
Rookie likes to have those he visits believe they are training him by sitting for a treat, a classic Beagle move. He also enjoys performing a chin rest on residents’ knees, providing warmth and light pressure for those in pain and a comforting touch for those who feel isolated.
The dogs’ weekly visits are a highlight for many residents of the center, offering a welcome distraction from pain and loneliness. And it’s not just a help for the residents. I see the staff light up as well when the dogs arrive.
The ongoing success of the Buddha and Me therapy dog program is a testament to the profound impact that well-trained therapy dogs like Molly, Riley, and Rookie can have on individuals facing significant challenges. We hope that pet-assisted therapy will become more widely recognized and integrated into care practices for those in need.
As the song says, we get by with a little help from our friends. And when those friends come with four paws and a happily wagging tail, who can help but feel a little better?