Animal Assisted Activities are casual activities where people and pets
connect. These meetings can happen anywhere, at any time, and help make
tough situations a little easier for the people involved. These dogs
might conduct visits to nursing homes, childcare facilities, schools,
and even disaster sites. Though the dogs don't need any specialized
training, it is important that they be calm and friendly and well behaved.
These dogs work with lots of different people.
Animal Assisted Therapy is when an animal such as a therapy dog is
an important part of someone's physical, social, and emotional therapy
activities. For example, a physical therapist might work with a patient
and therapy dog to improve their physical fitness. Dog grooming, walking
and even Frisbee throwing can help with coordination, strength, and
flexibility. These dogs require special training and work intensely
with one person at a time.
