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December 20, 2011
Chilli is a therapy dog at blueballoon Health Services. Certified by St John’s Ambulance, as a paediatric Therapy Dog, he underwent an evaluation specifically for working with children. The paediatric evaluation includes things like children throwing stuffed animals, screeching, playing loud music, or tumbling towards him on a mat. Chilli was challenged not to pick up toys, or show fear or aggression and had to demonstrate that he was comfortable and relaxed around children. One segment of the paediatric therapy dog evaluation has children reading to the dogs for 10-15 minutes. The purpose is to see if they qualify for the Paws and Reading Program, where therapy dogs go to schools and libraries to help children learn to read. If a child is reading to a dog, it creates a non-judgemental space where they are not intimidated and may be willing to read out loud and may be less fearful of making mistakes. At blueballoon Burlington, Chilli’s job is similar, he can act as a non-judgmental audience for children who need to talk about their problems, but may not be able to open up to an adult, therapist or psychologist. Chilli’s trainer Jess Robinson says that a therapy dog is used as a therapy aid, and can be used in whatever way works for a child. He can be used quite simply as motivation or reinforcement for children who can pet him after accomplishing session goals. On a deeper level, some children who suffer anxiety, depression, or psychological challenges may find it difficult to talk about their feelings. They may form an attachment to Chilli, through activities, and they tell Chilli everything as a non-threatening audience. News Coverage Archive Walk to the Music Music Supported Therapy |
Chilli was what got 10 year old Maddie in the door and attending sessions at blueballoon, says her Mom Robin. He was a huge catalyst in her programing, and helped her to open up and form a bond with her therapists. She doesn’t need Chilli to join her sessions anymore, and she has experienced major gains and accomplishments. She used to wear a hood all the time and was very withdrawn, but last June she took off her hood, and has since come out of her shell. She is much more open, and she enjoys coming to blueballoon. Chilli continues to provide comfort and fun for Maddie, he greets her at the door, makes her feel welcome and often seems to know when she’s having a bad day and shows her more affection. When asked what she likes about seeing Chilli every week at blueballoon she says, “Dogs make me happy and I love them.”