St. John Ambulance therapy dogs play a vital role in communities across Saskatchewan, offering support in various settings, including hospitals, senior residences, and wellness events. The program has expanded beyond major cities to include smaller communities such as Moosomin, Nokomis, and Prince Albert.
The History of St. John Ambulance and Its Therapy Dog Program
St. John Ambulance is the world’s oldest charitable organization, dating back to the Crusades in the 11th century, when it provided first aid on battlefields. Despite its long history, many people remain unaware of the organization’s diverse community services, such as therapy dogs and first aid programs. In Saskatchewan, the therapy dog program began in 2006 and has grown significantly, with volunteers providing comfort to people in care facilities across the province.
How the Therapy Dog Program Works
The therapy dog program pairs trained dogs with handlers to form a team. These teams undergo thorough evaluations, including interviews and assessments, and are regularly monitored for safety. Each year, the dogs undergo veterinary checks, and handlers complete background checks to ensure they meet the program’s high standards. The main mission of the program is to alleviate isolation and promote wellness, especially in senior homes and care facilities. Therapy dogs also visit businesses, conventions, schools, and hospitals to offer emotional support.
Funding and Community Support
As a non-profit, St. John Ambulance relies on donations and the revenue generated from their classes to fund the program. Despite limited government funding, the therapy dog teams are out in the community daily, offering comfort in hospitals, schools, and during major crises such as natural disasters or accidents. The therapy dogs have been present at events like the Humboldt bus crash, providing much-needed support to affected families.
The Impact of Therapy Dogs
The emotional and physical benefits of interacting with therapy dogs are well-documented. Petting a dog has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and provide a sense of comfort. Volunteers, like Lisa Schwann, the director of Community Services for St. John Ambulance Saskatchewan, are passionate about the program because they witness firsthand the positive effects therapy dogs have on people’s lives. For example, during one visit, a woman who had been unresponsive for months suddenly woke up and interacted with the therapy dog, something that hadn’t happened in months.
The Role of Volunteers
Therapy dog teams come from various communities in Saskatchewan, including Moosomin, Saskatoon, and Regina. These teams visit local hospitals, schools, and care facilities regularly. For locations that are further away, such as Wolseley, St. John Ambulance relies on donations to cover travel expenses.
Personal Stories of Healing
For volunteers like Lisa Schwann and her dog Dexter, the experience is deeply rewarding. They have witnessed countless moments where therapy dogs have brought people out of their shells, offering comfort to those in hospitals or grieving. One of the most memorable experiences was when Dexter’s presence helped a patient who had been in a coma for months, showing the profound impact these dogs can have on people’s well-being.
Community Service and Volunteerism
St. John Ambulance’s therapy dog program is just one of the ways they serve the community. In addition to their work with therapy dogs, volunteers provide first aid services at public events and help during emergencies, ensuring that individuals in crisis feel cared for and supported. The organization’s dedication to community service and wellness continues to make a lasting difference in Saskatchewan.
Through the therapy dog program, St. John Ambulance not only offers emotional support to individuals but also promotes mental and physical health, helping people navigate some of life’s toughest challenges with a little extra love and companionship from their furry friends.
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