You already know that those lovable and huggable creatures are great for your health. Here’s how one woman spread the joy to others—and how you can, too.
Who let the dogs IN!?? Apparently lots of places, including hospitals and hospital-based programs, residences for the elderly and disabled, addiction treatment clinics, hospices, funeral homes, disaster response centers, libraries, schools and more. It is well documented that the non-judgmental acceptance and unconditional love given by therapy animals play an important role in providing solace, reducing stress and anxiety, lowering blood pressure, boosting self-esteem, releasing “feel-good” endorphins and decreasing recovery time.
The Dog Whisperer, aka Cesar Millan, says dogs need jobs. For years it was a dream of Vivian Stadel to “one day” have a dog with whom she would volunteer. With that goal in mind, she and her family brought home a puppy seven years ago. This 50-pound dog, named Einstein, is a standard schnauzer whose breed is known for intelligence, reliability, devoted companionship, and utter cuteness. He triggers fewer potential allergies because he has hair as opposed to fur. Vivian socialized him (an easy task for this affectionate hound) and trained him in basic commands. Unlike most dogs who interpret direct eye contact as a sign of aggression, Einstein connects through his deep, unwavering gaze. When he was a puppy he would spontaneously shift back on his hind legs to rest his front paws on the person and stare lovingly with his irresistible button eyes. Vivian incorporated this into his repertoire.
Five years passed before Vivian’s dream came true. When she shifted into private practice as a geriatric care manager she was able to take advantage of her flexible schedule. At his ripe old age of five (35 in dog years), Einstein and Vivian completed their training to offer animal assisted activities. Not only is Einstein equipped with the right temperament and sensitivity, he now has a large vest wardrobe! Vivian coordinates her accessories by wearing a matching official ID necklace when they volunteer, as they are both well-heeled. Einstein even has his own punch line with a twist on the classic: How many dogs does it take to change a light bulb? (No need. Einstein makes the whole room light up with his love!)
Two years ago Einstein and Vivian were registered by the Delta Society, an organization dedicated to improving people's health and well being through positive interactions with animals. Vivian says she has to be aware of how she conducts herself as, “not only does Einstein pick up on my vibes, but we represent the Delta Society when we make visits.”
Vivian enjoys the constant learning and variety of settings, which includes a nursing home where Einstein pays “a friendly visit” and brings joy to residents one-on-one. Vivian described how Einstein and one particular resident, rendered disabled by a traumatic brain injury, hunt each other down for a mutual dose of bonding. Unlike tennis, love-love is a perfect score for them.
They also work with the mentally ill at an inpatient milieu as well as in a day treatment program.
