103 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com If you have ever felt the soft nudge of a wet nose against your hand or watched a puppy tilt its head in curious affection, you know how quickly a dog can lift your spirits. These companions do more than make us smile. They have the power to ease stress, soften pain and remind us of life’s simple joys. Therapy dogs provide one of the sweetest services, offering reassurance and comfort in our lives. Therapy dog programs can be found all throughout the Charleston health network. MUSC reports that they have a “robust Therapy Animal Program, with more than 100 certified therapy dogs” who can “not only alleviate stress, depression and blood pressure, but also boost self-esteem, enhance physical mobility, provide comfort and eliminate feelings of loneliness.” These programs have been demonstrated to enhance both mental and physical health, alleviate feelings of isolation and foster a sense of companionship. These animals bring joy in a way that humans simply cannot match, helping both patients and family members through the toughest of times. They offer children a sense of solace and confidence, help family members grieve the loss of loved ones and encourage patients to maintain a positive outlook after the news of a terminal diagnosis. MUSC hosts several events to allow the community to meet the Patient Animal Wellness Service (PAWS) team. We were fortunate enough to attend the Blessing of the Dogs event at their downtown Charleston campus, which occurs annually during the first week of October. Hundreds of people gathered to watch chaplains bless therapy dogs in honor of the Feast of Saint Francis, the patron saint of animals, and heartwarming stories were shared of the amazing work these animals and volunteers do every day. The College of Charleston also recognizes the power of dogs. They offer several days a year when therapy dogs visit the campus to provide stress relief to their students and faculty. The Charleston County Public Library also hosts events where they allow children to read to therapy dogs, giving the child a chance to grow their confidence and literary skills while our furry friends enjoy a relaxing story. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a therapy dog handler, opportunities are available. Southeastern Therapy Animal Resources (STAR) holds information sessions and training workshops, guiding potential handlers through the certification process and assisting institutions in setting up practical animalassisted activities and therapy programs. Therapy dogs enrich everyday life wherever they go, bringing smiles, breaking down barriers and encouraging conversations that might never have started otherwise. The benefits ripple outward. Walking a therapy dog offers fresh air, exercise and the chance for spontaneous social encounters. These small moments can have a huge impact which builds community and connection. Dogs remind us to slow down, breathe and reconnect with ourselves. With every tail wag, they deliver something medicine alone cannot: comfort, companionship and unconditional love. BY ALLYAH HARRAR AND ANDREW LEE Peaceful Paws The power of therapy dogs our pets
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1