National Therapy Dog Day

Happy therapy dog surrounded by smiling children, wearing a bandana, cozy school classroom setting.. — National therapy dog day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Therapy Dog Day! Get ready for a tail-wagging good time as we dive into the heartwarming and paw-some history of this special day.

When is Therapy Dog Day?

It's national therapy dog day on the 18th May.

What is National Therapy Dog Day?

On this cherished day, we celebrate the incredible impact therapy dogs have on our lives. These four-legged heroes bring comfort, love, and healing to those in need. Whether they're visiting hospitals, schools, nursing homes, or disaster areas, therapy dogs offer a warm and fuzzy presence that can brighten anyone's day.

The origins of this national day can be traced back to the canine-loving community on the internet. In 2015, a group of passionate dog enthusiasts proposed the idea of dedicating a day to honor therapy dogs' important work. Their efforts paid off when National Therapy Dog Day was officially recognized on May 18th of that year.

Why Therapy Dogs are So Paw-some

Therapy dogs are trained to provide affection, support, and companionship to people who could use a little extra love and comfort. Studies have shown that interacting with these furry angels can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even ease pain. Plus, who can resist the healing power of cuddles from a sweet pup?

These fluffy healers aren't just for those facing physical challenges. Therapy dogs also work wonders for those struggling with emotional issues, anxiety, and loneliness. Their unconditional love and non-judgmental nature create a safe space for people to express themselves and find solace.

A Day to Celebrate Our Furry Friends

So how can you join in on the National Therapy Dog Day festivities? Well, the first step is simple: take a moment to thank the therapy dogs in your community. These amazing dogs and their dedicated handlers deserve all the love and appreciation we can give.

Consider volunteering at a local shelter or organization that trains therapy dogs. Your time and support can make a world of difference in the lives of these adorable canines and the people they touch.

And let's not forget to shower our own furry friends with some extra love on this special day. Whether your pet has official therapy dog status or just knows how to give the best snuggles, they deserve recognition too.

History behind the term 'Therapy Dog'

1968

The Birth of Animal-Assisted Therapy

The concept of using animals as therapy dates back to the late 18th century, but it gained formal recognition in 1968. Dr. Boris Levinson, a child psychologist, discovered the powerful effect that his dog Jingles had on his young patients. He observed that the presence of the dog helped the children open up, express themselves more freely, and develop a sense of trust. This marked the inception of animal-assisted therapy, which set the stage for the term 'therapy dog'.

1976

Therapy Dogs International

In 1976, the nonprofit organization Therapy Dogs International (TDI) was founded. Their mission was to regulate, test, and register therapy dogs and their handlers. TDI played a vital role in shaping the use of therapy dogs and promoting their benefits in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. The establishment of TDI marked a significant milestone in the history of therapy dogs and popularized the term 'therapy dog' among the public.

1991

American Kennel Club Recognition

The American Kennel Club (AKC), one of the most prominent dog registry organizations in the United States, officially recognized therapy dogs in 1991. They introduced the AKC Therapy Dog title for dogs that demonstrated their ability to provide comfort and support to people in need, becoming the first national kennel club to acknowledge the role of therapy dogs. This recognition further solidified the term 'therapy dog' and helped establish guidelines for training and certification.

2002

Emotional Support Dogs and the ADA

In 2002, the U.S. Department of Transportation expanded the definition of assistance animals under the Air Carrier Access Act to include emotional support animals. This broader classification recognized the therapeutic benefits that animals, including dogs, could provide to individuals with emotional or psychological disabilities. As a result, the term 'therapy dog' encompassed not only dogs trained for animal-assisted therapy in professional settings but also dogs providing emotional support to their owners in everyday life.

2021

Continued Popularity and Advancements

Today, therapy dogs are widely recognized for their ability to offer comfort, support, and stress relief in a variety of environments. They assist individuals with physical and mental health conditions, contribute to educational programs, and provide emotional support during crises. Therapy dogs have become an integral part of many communities worldwide, offering companionship and improving the overall well-being of people they interact with. The term 'therapy dog' remains widely used and continues to evolve as research develops and societies become more receptive to the positive impact of these amazing animals.

Did you know?

Did you know that some therapy dogs can even detect cancer? Their incredible sense of smell allows them to detect changes in a person's body odor, which can indicate the presence of certain cancers. Truly remarkable!