Therapy Dogs at work in Oklahoma
H.A.L.O.: Human Animal Link of Oklahoma
In times of crisis or trauma sometimes the best therapy comes not on two legs, but four. Throughout history dogs have been used as therapy to help people through tough times. Whether it is trauma, crisis, or times of transition, our pets provide support and wellness to those in need. It is through that philosophy that the organization H.A.L.O. (Human Animal Link of Oklahoma) was founded. They believe that pets are the driving force behind experiencing unconditional relationships for people of all ages.
These volunteers and their dogs work in various areas such as: hospitals, hospice, special needs children, libraries, college campuses, mental health facilities, and work with the elderly just to name a few. These dogs provide immeasurable comfort to the people that they visit. This organization is completely volunteer based. The owners and their dogs serve many needed areas throughout our community.
Dr. Mendy Laughlin recently had the pleasure of observing these special dogs during a visit to the University of Central Oklahoma. These dogs were providing some much needed stress relief for the college students before their final exams. For many of these students it has become a weekly routine to take a break from their studies to visit with these dogs. With unconditional love these dogs bring a smile and serve as a source of comfort to students that may be home sick or stressed with upcoming exams. One of our patients, Sammie, is very involved with H.A.L.O. and is a regular at UCO as well as many hospitals in the metro area. The canines generally undergo basic obedience training as well as pass their good canine citizen training.
Last week Dr. Laughlin was able to meet several of the canines that work with H.A.L.O.. Sammie is a twelve year old Golden Retriever who became a therapy dog at the age of 9. Sammie loves her job and is always eager to offer herself to someone who just needs to have a smile brought to their face. Sammie recently had a cruciate ligament repaired at Danforth Animal Hospital and is doing well following her surgery.
Tallulah is a six year old Goldendoodle. Tallulah is always eager to please and has developed a special relationship with an Alzheimer patient. This special bond started before Tallulah was therapy certified and it was this relationship that motivated her owner to get her into a therapy program.
Emme and Gus are Bernese Mountain Dogs. These gorgeous gentle giants are the perfect pair to provide snuggles when you need a hug! Emme is two and has been a therapy dog for about a year. Gus is five and has been active as a therapy dog for about three years. These two are so well behaved and their personalities are infectious.
Abby is seven and has been a therapy dog for five years. Abby works at hospitals in the area and works with special need children. She also has a special relationship with a group of children with autism. Abby enjoys her job and we think she is pretty good at what she does.
These dogs are just a few examples of the many therapy dogs that are involved with H.A.L.O. This organization provides a service that serves people when they are most in need. They are one of our charities that may be chosen by our raffle winner to support this year. If you or anyone you know is interested in becoming involved in a therapy organization we would encourage you to visit their website for more information.