Help us raise money

Established in 1992 the SJA Therapy Dog Program has become a recognized leader in animal-assisted intervention reaching out to thousands of people across Canada in long term care and mental health facilities, schools, universities, day care centres, colleges, hospitals, libraries and airports.  Dogs are carefully evaluated to ensure they have the right temperament to be a therapy dog, are well socialized, walk comfortably on a loose leash, are confident in different situations and locations, not upset by items used in LTC homes and hospitals such as walkers and wheelchairs and very importantly, enjoys being petted.   

Anyone can benefit from a visit with a therapy dog.  Research has demonstrated that the act of petting a dog produces an automatic relaxation response, lowering blood pressure and slowing breathing.  It lowers anxiety helping people feel calm.  A visit with a therapy dog decreases isolation and loneliness and increases socialization, encouraging communication.

In Thunder Bay and NWO, therapy dog teams visit many different facilities such as long term care and mental health facilities, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, St. Joseph Hospital, Thunder Bay Regional Airport, Lakehead University, Confederation College, Thunder Bay Police Station, Judge Lester Youth Correctional Centre, Superior North EMS.  Child tested dogs visited elementary schools and participate in the Paws for Stories program in which children read with the dogs. There are also many community events in which therapy dogs participate such as wellness days in schools and offices, community activities such as Thunder Con, Remembrance Day services and anti-bullying activities in schools.  

Therapy dogs put smiles on faces where ever they visit!