Meet Joey, our onsite animal-assisted therapy dog!

Joey is a 12 lb adult Italian Greyhound. He and his owner Kristin are registered Pet Partners with Delta Society, and are able to provide Animal-Assisted Therapy under the direction of a therapist, and with parent permission. Joey has undergone training and comprehensive evaluation for obedience, skills, and temperament in order for he and Kristin to become registered Pet Partners. He is current on all vaccinations and healthcare.

Research studies suggest that through interaction with dogs, children may have:

• decreased stress response during appointments
• enhanced self-concept
• improved ability to empathize with others
• increased motivation to participate in activities

Possible goal areas that Joey can help to address include:

• Assist with transitions
• Improve fine motor skills by manipulating fasteners on Joey’s clothing
• Increase endurance for mobility by taking Joey for a walk
• Practice ball skills by playing fetch
• Increase sustained attention and focus to task
• Improve ability to sequence multi-step directions, like preparing for a walk, brushing Joey, or doing a series of tricks
• Practice social skills by providing an engaging focal point for joint attention and conversation

For more information about how animal-assisted therapy might benefit your child, visit www.deltasociety.org