At the Pawsitive Connections Lab at the University of Saskatchewan, a groundbreaking research initiative is underway that seeks to understand the emotional experiences of therapy dogs. Under the guidance of Dr. Colleen Dell, the team is focused on flipping the conventional narrative about therapy animals and exploring the dogs' perspectives as they perform their supportive tasks. As the role of therapy animals continues to grow in various sectors, understanding how these animals feel during their work becomes increasingly critical.
The research involves observing therapy dogs in action and assessing their emotional responses through a variety of metrics. By gaining insight into how dogs experience their roles, the study aims to enhance the efficacy and welfare of therapy programs. This innovative approach is expected to address not only the well-being of the dogs but also the quality of care delivered to the individuals they assist, from mental health therapy sessions to hospital visits.
The findings from this research may contribute significantly to the body of knowledge regarding the interaction between humans and therapy animals, ultimately informing better practices and policies in the use of therapy dogs across Canada and beyond. Dr. Dell and her team aim to publish results that highlight the importance of considering therapy dogs' feelings as integral to their work.
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