Unconditional Love & Moments of Joy: Kingsley the Therapy Dog
Dogs are one of the most common pets in many households, and for good reason. They offer unconditional love, provide moments of joy, and can even assist in counselling. The presence of a pet therapy dog during a counselling session can be a truly transformative experience for both adults and children by reducing stress levels and boosting moods.
Here are ten reasons why pet therapy dogs, like Kingsley, are a fantastic addition to a counselling session:
1) Kingsley provides unconditional love and comfort in a way humans can not. Animals exude a different kind of love and acceptance. This allows the client to feel more relaxed and at ease in the counselling environment.
2) Pet therapy dogs, like Kingsley, offer a delightful distraction from current issues, bringing moments of happiness and joy. These experiences help clients see the brighter side of life, fostering a sense of hope for better days ahead.
3) During sessions, therapy dogs help clients reduce stress levels, enabling them to maintain a healthier mood while discussing potentially upsetting emotions.
4) Kingsley can benefit adults and children during difficult times as a pet therapy dog. His loving nature and naturally calming presence create a soothing atmosphere.
5) Having Kingsley present during counselling allows clients with emotional or behavioural problems to explore challenging thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to discuss otherwise.
6) Kingsley promotes the understanding of boundaries. As dogs excel at self-soothing, they can instinctively withdraw from uncomfortable situations—an essential lesson for clients to witness.
7) Dogs, like Kingsley, possess the unique ability to mirror emotions and feelings, making clients feel understood and validated. Their happiness is contagious, particularly when surrounded by people experiencing joy.
8) Therapy dogs like Kingsley can enhance a person’s sense of self-worth. The desire to play and interact with a dog fosters a feeling of belonging and helps lift the client’s mood.
9) As a pet therapy dog, Kingsley can help clients better understand trust, touch, and self-respect. Clients can explore these sensitive topics in a non-judgmental manner while bonding with Kingsley—particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced abuse.
10) A therapy dog, like Kingsley, aids in developing relationships, starting with the new bond formed between the client and the therapy dog. The companionship and friendship offered by a pet therapy dog during difficult times can help build trust.
If you are interested in having Kingsley in our sessions, please let your therapist at Safe & Sound Therapeutics know and we can book your session on the days when he is at the clinic.