Therapy Dog Talk

Kentucky and Derby are puttin smiles on faces while at surf competitions and volunteering in schools. In this 102nd episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with with Kentucky Gallahue and his Goldendoodle, Derby California. They’ve not only made a splash surfing together at surf dog competitions with their matching blue mohawks but have also warmed hearts as a Therapy Dog team through Love on a Leash, always living by their motto: “Puttin smiles on faces” wherever they go. In this episode, we discuss … How Kentucky and Derby balance surfing competitions and therapy work.What it was like to compete on “The Pack” on Prime and why they love adventures.Why it’s important to foster a deep connection with your dog. — I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/derbycalifornia https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/puttin-smiles-on-faces-with-kentucky-and-derby/

Nicole Selby and K9 Tanner are trailblazing integrating Facility Dogs into paramedicine. In this 101st episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with with Nicole Selby and her remarkable Community Paramedic Facility Dog, K9 Tanner, who are redefining the boundaries of healing in paramedicine through animal-assisted therapy. Their journey is not just a story of companionship but a pioneering exploration into how dogs like Tanner are becoming indispensable in medical settings. In this episode, we discuss … How Nicole and Tanner are leading the way in bringing Therapy Dogs into paramedicine, helping patients heal beyond traditional medical methods.The differences between Therapy, Facility, and Service Dogs, focusing on how each plays a unique part in support and care.What Nicole recommends for those interested in starting their journey in animal-assisted therapy. — I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/k9.medic.cp https://instagram.com/pages.pens.paws https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/101

Nicole Selby and K9 Tanner are trailblazing integrating Facility Dogs into paramedicine. In this 101st episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with with Nicole Selby and her remarkable Community Paramedic Facility Dog, K9 Tanner, who are redefining the boundaries of healing in paramedicine through animal-assisted therapy. Their journey is not just a story of companionship but a pioneering exploration into how dogs like Tanner are becoming indispensable in medical settings. In this episode, we discuss … How Nicole and Tanner are leading the way in bringing Therapy Dogs into paramedicine, helping patients heal beyond traditional medical methods.The differences between Therapy, Facility, and Service Dogs, focusing on how each plays a unique part in support and care.What Nicole recommends for those interested in starting their journey in animal-assisted therapy. — I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/k9.medic.cp https://instagram.com/pages.pens.paws https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/101

From office dog to Animal-Assisted Crisis Response and Dog Scouts of America, Tessa and Finn are always improving their bond. In this 100th(!) episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with with Tessa Bodey and her Golden Retriever, Finn. Together, they navigate the impactful world of Animal-Assisted Crisis Response (AACR) with HOPE, achieve recognition through American Kennel Club (AKC) titles and Dog Scouts of America badges, as well as spread comfort and joy at LAX with the PUPs program. In this episode, we discuss … Finn’s impactful role in HOPE’s Animal-Assisted Crisis Response, providing essential comfort during crises.Finn’s distinguished behavior as evidenced by his AKC CGCU and CGCA titles, showcasing his adaptability and discipline.Finn’s dual role in spreading joy at LAX with PUPs and exploring his creative side with Dog Scouts of America, highlighting his well-rounded capabilities as a therapy dog. — I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/finnbodey https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/100

From office dog to Animal-Assisted Crisis Response and Dog Scouts of America, Tessa and Finn are always improving their bond. In this 100th(!) episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with with Tessa Bodey and her Golden Retriever, Finn. Together, they navigate the impactful world of Animal-Assisted Crisis Response (AACR) with HOPE, achieve recognition through American Kennel Club (AKC) titles and Dog Scouts of America badges, as well as spread comfort and joy at LAX with the PUPs program. In this episode, we discuss … Finn’s impactful role in HOPE’s Animal-Assisted Crisis Response, providing essential comfort during crises.Finn’s distinguished behavior as evidenced by his AKC CGCU and CGCA titles, showcasing his adaptability and discipline.Finn’s dual role in spreading joy at LAX with PUPs and exploring his creative side with Dog Scouts of America, highlighting his well-rounded capabilities as a therapy dog. — I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/finnbodey https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/100

Neil has a lot to share on how pet therapy found him and his rescued Beagle named Breezy. In this 99th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with with Neil to discuss his Beagle Breezy’s extraordinary evolution. Starting as a rescue dog, Breezy rose to become an AKC Therapy Dog Distinguished (THDD), a journey that has not only changed lives, through his 700+ visits with Paws for Friendship, but also illustrated the profound impact and legacy of pet therapy. In this episode, we discuss … Neil and Breezy’s impressive record of over 700 therapy visits and their lasting impact.Breezy’s journey from a rescue to achieving the AKC Therapy Dog Distinguished title.The strong bond between Neil and Breezy, highlighting the essence of pet therapy. — I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/breezythetherapydog https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/99 Watch Neil's documentary: https://youtu.be/zBng-zujBA4?si=KHAYLt73ZX5dZlS-

Brian knows the importance of finding a Therapy Dog organization that aligns with his lifestyle. In this 98th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with Brian about his journey with Riley, a Labrador-German Shepherd mix, from foster fail to heart dog and Therapy Dog. Together they are certified through Alliance of Therapy Dogs and volunteer at their local Ronald McDonald House and on the DEN CATS airport therapy animal team. In this episode, we discuss … Brian’s search for a Therapy Dog group that accepted Riley’s raw food diet.How Brian’s close relationship with Riley helped them choose the right therapy work.Brian’s willingness to try different volunteering places to find the best fit for Riley.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casa_de_shepherd https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/98

Brian knows the importance of finding a Therapy Dog organization that aligns with his lifestyle. In this 98th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with Brian about his journey with Riley, a Labrador-German Shepherd mix, from foster fail to heart dog and Therapy Dog. Together they are certified through Alliance of Therapy Dogs and volunteer at their local Ronald McDonald House and on the DEN CATS airport therapy animal team. In this episode, we discuss … Brian’s search for a Therapy Dog group that accepted Riley’s raw food diet.How Brian’s close relationship with Riley helped them choose the right therapy work.Brian’s willingness to try different volunteering places to find the best fit for Riley.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casa_de_shepherd https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/98

Sumbul helps Budge thrive as a Therapy Dog by recognizing his needs and setting boundaries. In this 97th episode of Therapy Dog Talk,I chat with Sumbul about her experiences with Budge, her English Bulldog, who transitioned from a family pandemic puppy to a beloved Therapy Dog. They are a certified team through Alliance of Therapy Dogs volunteering at their local hospice and on the DENCATS airport therapy animal team. In this episode, we discuss … How Budge's warm personality and adaptability make him an ideal Therapy Dog.The significance of setting boundaries and considering Budge's needs during therapy work.Sumbul's insights on the unique aspects of handling a Bulldog in therapy settings.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/budgethepudge https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/97

Sumbul helps Budge thrive as a Therapy Dog by recognizing his needs and setting boundaries. In this 97th episode of Therapy Dog Talk,I chat with Sumbul about her experiences with Budge, her English Bulldog, who transitioned from a family pandemic puppy to a beloved Therapy Dog. They are a certified team through Alliance of Therapy Dogs volunteering at their local hospice and on the DENCATS airport therapy animal team. In this episode, we discuss … How Budge's warm personality and adaptability make him an ideal Therapy Dog.The significance of setting boundaries and considering Budge's needs during therapy work.Sumbul's insights on the unique aspects of handling a Bulldog in therapy settings.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/budgethepudge https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/97

Kim Fontaine, President of AATSMA, advocates for unique breeds like her Akita Therapy Dogs. In this 96th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I sit down with Kim Fontaine, the founder and president of Animal Assisted Therapy Services of Massachusetts (AATSMA). Kim’s journey with her Akitas, Tomo and Toshi, provides a unique perspective on Therapy Dog work. In this episode, we discuss … The path Kim has taken to incorporate Akitas into her Therapy Dog program.The importance of respecting Therapy Dogs and understanding their professional role.The details of the training and education process at Animal Assisted Therapy Services of Massachusetts.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/aatsmaorg https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/96

Hallie shares what it’s like for Apgar to join her in Animal Assisted Therapy at a Psychiatric Hospital. In this 95th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I sit down with Hallie to talk about her adventures with Apgar, a Yellow Labrador who’s made an impressive switch from being a Guide Dog in training to a much-loved Therapy Dog. Their story is all about embracing life’s unexpected twists and using them to positively impact others. In this episode, we discuss … How Hallie helped Apgar transition from Guide Dog prospect to Therapy Dog.Why the deep bond between a handler and their Therapy Dog as crucial for successful therapy work.What it’s like to be a puppy raiser for Southeastern Guide Dogs and how you can get involved.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apgars_buddy_morris_ https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/95

Ugnė and Kuna volunteer as a dog therapy team in Lithuania helping elementary kids and seniors. In this 94th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I sat down with Ugnė and her amazing rescue dog, Kuna, about their volunteer therapy work in Vilnius, Lithuania through Kaniterapijos asociacija. Ugnė tells us how she transformed Kuna from a reactive shelter pup into a certified Therapy Dog in 2022, ready to bring joy and comfort to those in need with a personal motto of “giving smiles to the ones who need it most.” In this episode, we discuss … How Ugnė’s journey with Kuna began with tackling Kuna’s reactivity to other dogs, a challenge they overcame together.The significant and varied impacts that therapy dogs like Kuna can have, from bringing calmness to children to providing comfort to seniors.How anyone can become involved in Therapy Dog volunteering regardless of their professional background.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuniterapija https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/94

Shannon created a Therapy Dog program with her dog Blue and advocates for Therapy Dog welfare. In this 93rd episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Shannon Noonan, where she shared her experiences as a mental health professional, certified professional dog trainer and Therapy Dog handler with her rescued Great Dane Pointer mix, and heart dog, Blue. In this episode, we discuss … How her research showed that Therapy Dogs can have a significant positive impact on people’s mental health.Why it’s important to recognize signs of stress and discomfort in dogs to ensure their well-being and happiness.How dogs, like humans, can change over time, physically or behaviorally and that it’s essential to recognize and respect this.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spontondogspei https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/93

Sarah and her Klee Kai Pixel teach us the importance of advocating for your Therapy Dog. In this 92nd episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Sarah and her talkative Klee Kai, Pixel. These two are more than just a therapy team; they’re a dynamic duo that showcases the essence of a handler-dog bond. In this episode, we discuss … Sarah and Pixel’s strong connection that led them down the path of therapy work.Pixel’s interaction with a young hospital patient that demonstrates the profound impact Therapy Dogs can have.The importance of ongoing training, understanding the dog’s needs, and advocating for them.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team:http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pixelthetherapydog_kleekai https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/92

Mary Rose and her miniature Therapy Horse Honey are changing lives while volunteering together in Florida. In this bonus episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I chat with Mary Rose Gullet about her unique journey with Honey, her miniature Therapy Horse. We recorded this episode on Celebration of the Horse Day to learn about what it’s like to train and partner with equines for therapy work. In this episode, we discuss … Why Mary Rose knew that Honey had something special to offer to others as a Miniature Therapy Horse.What Honey’s training looked like and the special considerations for equine therapy.How Mary Rose hopes to see other places benefit from more Miniature Therapy Horses.Note: You may notice an odd transition here or there as we did run into some technical issues with this episode but it shouldn’t be too disruptive and you won’t want to miss their story. — I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honeysminitherapyadventures https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/chd

Estella and her volunteer Therapy Poms work through their own traumas while helping others with theirs. In this 91st episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I talk with Estella about the heartwarming story of her senior Pomeranians, Monti and Finn, and their combined journey of healing and support. In this episode, we discuss … The unique stories behind Monti and Finn becoming registered Therapy Dogs.Estella’s incredible experiences volunteering with her Therapy Poms, especially in the juvenile court system.The necessity of self-care for Therapy Dog handlers, taking from Estella’s own lessons learned from her trauma stories.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapypoms https://www.instagram.com/findingstrengthofheart https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/91

How Christie’s Golden Retriever Frankie became the first School Therapy Dog in their district. In this 90th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I talk with Christie about her journey to bringing her son’s Golden Retriever, Frankie, to work with her as the district’s first School Therapy Dog. In this episode, we discuss … What it took to bring Frankie to work as the first School Therapy Dog in their district.How Christie’s son Cash hopes to become a Junior Therapy Dog Handler.Why it’s important to advocate for your dog and how doing so can help others.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldenboy.frankie https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/90

Jennifer’s Bernedoodle Eclipse partners with her in Animal-Assisted Counseling as a therapy assistant. In this 89th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I welcome Jennifer Uhlman, a Marriage and Family Therapist, and her Bernedoodle, Eclipse. Jennifer shares the unique journey that led Eclipse from service dog training to partnering with her in Animal-Assisted Counseling, an unexpected pivot due to Eclipse’s health and anxiety-related issues. In this episode, we discuss … What it was like for Eclipse to transition from a Service Dog in training to a therapeutic assistant in Animal-Assisted Counseling.How Eclipse has been helped clients in her therapy practice.Why it’s important to recognize when your dog needs a break.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennu_psych27 https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/89

Bree was surprised to find that her rescue dog Mickey was the perfect fit for a School Therapy Dog. In this 88th episode of Therapy Dog Talk, I had the privilege of speaking with Bree Long. Once a School Psychologist, Bree now dedicates her time to being a volunteer Therapy Dog handler, working alongside her rescue, a German Shepherd mix named Mickey. In this episode, we discuss … How Bree was surprised that it was her rescue who was the right fit for Therapy Dog work.Why it’s important to recognize your dog’s boundaries and know when they need a break.Where Bree has found ideas for Animal-Assisted Activities and which one is her favorite.— I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I do. Give it a watch or a listen and then let me know in the community which part you found the most helpful! — How to get started as a Therapy Dog team: http://freeguide.therapydogtalk.com Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/mickey.thetherapydog https://instagram.com/therapydogtalk Episode show notes: https://sherrierohde.com/88