Welcome to Poppy’s Page!
If you are here, you’ve probably met Poppy and have received her love, whether in the form of a hand lick, or a sweet belly rub. Poppy has volunteered at Oxford High School, college de-stress exam weeks, mental health awareness weeks at local high schools, Michigan State athlete events, Operation Handshake with the Patriot Guard Riders at Flint Bishop Airport, and lately, we have been regular visitors at Karmanos Cancer Institute in Clarkston, MI. Wherever we go, Poppy brings with her a sweet and joyous presence, and soft fur to pet. It has been the greatest honor to do volunteer work with Poppy since we were certified with Mid-Michigan Therapy Dogs in 2022. If you are interested in having her come visit, contact me!
Benefits of a therapy dog:
Therapy dogs offer a wide range of physical, emotional, and social benefits to individuals. Some of the key advantages include:
- Emotional Support: Therapy dogs provide comfort, companionship, and unconditional love. Their presence can reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety.
- Stress Reduction: Interacting with therapy dogs has been shown to lower stress levels and decrease the production of stress-related hormones.
- Mood Enhancement: Spending time with a therapy dog can boost mood and contribute to an overall sense of well-being. The positive interaction releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators.
- Social Interaction: Therapy dogs can facilitate socialization, encourage communication, and provide a non-threatening way for individuals to connect with others.
- Physical Health: Interacting with therapy dogs has been associated with lower blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and improved cardiovascular health.
- Pain Management: The presence of a therapy dog can distract individuals from pain and discomfort, potentially reducing the need for pain medication.
- Motivation for Physical Activity: Walking or playing with a therapy dog can encourage physical activity, which is beneficial for both mental and physical health.
- Crisis Response: Therapy dogs are often deployed in crisis situations or disaster areas to provide comfort and support to individuals affected by trauma.
- Improved Communication: Therapy dogs can be especially beneficial for individuals with communication challenges, as the non-verbal nature of the interaction can create a safe and comfortable environment.
- Enhanced Focus and Relaxation: Spending time with a therapy dog can improve concentration, promote relaxation, and help individuals focus on the present moment.
