The Healing Touch of Therapy Dogs For Individuals With IDD

Therapy dogs are more than just furry companions. They play a vital role in improving the lives of people with whom they interact. At RISE Services, Inc. Missouri, we help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) grow daily living skills through personalized tools and strategies. This has included visits from local therapy dogs. So, let’s explore how these furry friends enrich lives and why they’re so impactful for individuals with IDD.

What Is a Therapy Dog?

A therapy dog is trained to provide comfort, companionship, and unconditional affection to people in various settings. Whether in hospitals, schools, or our Opportunity Center, therapy dogs help individuals achieve emotional well-being while creating meaningful connections. Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs don’t perform specific tasks for one individual but instead assist groups by boosting morale, reducing isolation, and improving mental health.

The Power of These Furry Pals

Therapy dogs are especially helpful for individuals with IDD because of their ability to connect on an emotional level. Interacting with therapy dogs has been shown to reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and increase serotonin (the happiness hormone). They can also encourage communication, provide a sense of security during challenging situations, and help develop social skills.

For individuals with IDD, therapy dogs may provide:

• Emotional Support: A calming presence that alleviates stress and anxiety.
• Social Engagement: Encourages interactions that foster confidence and connection.
• Routine and Comfort: Regular interactions with therapy dogs provide predictability, which can be particularly soothing.

Recently, RISE Services, Inc. Missouri experienced the unique benefits of these furry friends firsthand when the CHAMP Therapy Dog Program visited adults in our Day Program held at our Opportunity Center.

More Canine Love at RISE Missouri

There's plenty of canine love at RISE Services, Inc. Missouri. Our social enterprise, Wags in a Bag, is a dog treat bakery where individuals with can gain valuable job skills.

Participants create all-natural dog biscuits and treats, learning teamwork, time management, and culinary techniques. This hands-on experience not only builds vocational skills but also boosts confidence and independence.

Connect With RISE Missouri

At RISE Services, Inc. Missouri, we provide a wide range of services designed to promote growth. From occupational therapy to speech pathology and physical therapy, we offer life-changing opportunities for individuals we support.

Whether through therapy sessions, vocational programs, social enterprises Wags in a Bag, or collaborations with organizations like CHAMP Therapy Dogs, RISE Services, Inc. Missouri is passionate about fostering community and meeting individuals right where they are.

Are you interested in learning more? Contact RISE Missouri today!