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Discover how Therapy Dogs Nationwide (TDN) brings comfort, connection, and calm to people of all ages, across schools, dental practices, veterans’ homes, universities, and more through the powerful presence of therapy dogs.

Therapy Dogs in Dental Practices

At Therapy Dogs Nationwide (TDN), we are pioneering the use of Therapy Dogs in dental settings, helping to reduce patient anxiety and create a calm, reassuring atmosphere. This relaxed environment allows procedures to be carried out more smoothly and efficiently, benefiting both patients and dental professionals.

Therapy Dogs in Funeral Directors

Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult and emotional experience, and Therapy Dogs can provide comfort and companionship during this time of grief. Our dogs offer a quiet, non-judgmental presence, helping families feel at ease during funeral arrangements or services. Many people find stroking a dog or simply having one nearby to be a calming distraction, offering a moment of solace in an otherwise overwhelming situation.

Therapy Dogs in Veterans' Facilities

TDN has a long-standing association with the Chelsea Pensioners, bringing Therapy Dogs to veterans’ homes and care facilities. For many, our visits evoke memories of past pets and provide companionship, comfort, and emotional support, which can be especially beneficial for those struggling with loneliness or PTSD.

Therapy Dogs Supporting Key Emergency Workers

Emergency service workers face high-stress and emotionally demanding roles, and our Therapy Dogs provide a valuable decompression opportunity. Through our long-standing partnership with the London Ambulance Service (LAS), we visit control room workers, offering them a chance to relax and reset between shifts, helping to mitigate the impact of difficult calls and traumatic situations.

Therapy Dogs in Libraries and Bookshops

In libraries and bookshops, children read to Therapy Dogs, helping them build confidence, improve literacy skills, and engage their imagination. Some children who may struggle to read aloud to adults find it easier to read to a dog, free of judgment or pressure. This experience can spark a lifelong love of books and storytelling.

Therapy Dogs in Universities

University life, particularly during exam season, can be stressful, and Therapy Dogs offer a much-needed mental health boost. Our university visits provide students with a moment of relaxation and emotional support, helping to reduce stress and anxiety in high-pressure academic environments.

Therapy Dogs in Secure (Mental Health) Units

Living in a secure mental health unit can often feel isolating and overwhelming, but visits from Therapy Dogs Nationwide (TDN) provide a sense of companionship, comfort, and routine. Our Therapy Dogs help to reduce anxiety, promote social interaction, and offer a calming presence, making a meaningful difference in patients’ emotional well-being.

Sources

The Effects of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Dental Anxiety: Discusses how Therapy Dogs reduce patient stress in dental settings. Science Direct

Animal-Assisted Interventions for Veterans with PTSD: Research on Therapy Dogs improving mental health in veterans. PMC

Stress-Reducing Effects of Therapy Dogs in University Students During Exam Periods: Discusses how dog therapy alleviates student stress. Research Gate

Animal-Assisted Therapy in Secure Units: Enhancing Patient Engagement and Emotional Well-Being: Reviews the benefits of therapy dogs in mental health settings. Research Gate