Because animals have been so effective in assisting their human counterparts as therapy dogs both one-on-one with their disabled masters as well as going into nursing homes to cheer up the residents, dogs are now brought in where deep psychological wounds need to be mended. One of these examples was at the Sandy Hook School shooting. These Golden Retrievers were specially trained to deal with those who are suffering trauma and grief and made a real difference for both children and parents.
Why Therapy Dogs at Funeral Homes?
Because therapy dogs have proven to be so beneficial in assisting people who are suffering deep sadness, it is now commonplace to see”therapy dogs at funeral homes.
These dogs are considered important staff members because of how much of a difference they make to those mourning the death of a loved one. To see a friendly dog, one that is so in tune with people’s feelings that they will literally come and put their heads on your lap as if to say, I understand, is something that no other service can provide.
Therapy dogs are also a pleasant distraction in addition to having a positive and calming effect by all who interact with them. They are specifically trained to sense anguish and grief that others are feeling and to sit beside that person to demonstrate their compassion. Most families today have pets in the household and to see a therapy dog or mascot in a funeral home is always a pleasant experience and one that elevates the mood of those who are grieving. This is the purpose of having the dogs there, and it is working. As a result, more and more funeral homes are choosing to go this route by having these precious fur therapists on staff.