Dog Assisted Therapy

What a fun experience we had on Friday! We took our dog, Molly, to the Clubhouse of Suffolk in Ronkonkoma for a visit set up by PRAAT (Patchogue Rotary Animal Assisted Therapy). Molly has been trained and certified to visit facilities where people, who are no longer able to have pets with them, can enjoy the pleasures that pets can provide.

We spent about an hour playing, interacting and talking with a group of mentally challenged adults about how pets can help with recovery through interaction, unconditional love and mutual affection.  The 15 people who joined our visit had a good time putting Molly through her "tricks", playing catch and getting lots of doggie kisses. Molly loved all the attention and came home tired and contented.  We will continue to make  monthly visits at the Clubhouse and/or other local health facilities.

PRAAT is a volunteer organization under the guidance of Dr. Dave Henson, Rotarian and veterinarian at the Paumanoke Veterinarian Hospital in Patchogue. If you are interested in participating with your dog, go to www.praatinc.org for more information. Dogs are screened monthly for health and personality fitness for the program and then go through an 8 week training session before becoming certified. Its a great way for you and your dog to share the love!