Caring for and managing a dog ("Canine Partner") not only enriches human life in practical ways, but provides physiological, psychological and social benefits that help keep people healthy and happy.
Research has shown the value of the human-animal bond and the potential therapeutic benefits.
Two's Company
A Canine Partner willingly offers companionship, unconditional love and affection and a sense of security and support, which are all essential to human health and well-being. In the process of learning to care for and manage their dog, a Partner experiences a sense of achievement and purpose, which helps in building self-esteem, self-confidence and motivation.
Social Interaction
Whilst out exercising and playing games in the park, or working in the supermarket and then paying at the checkout, the extraordinary Canine Partner is a catalyst for conversation when meeting new people and increases their Partner's social interaction.
To Boldly Go
To care for and manage a Canine Partner involves being responsible for daily exercise, feeding, grooming and playing which requires a person to discover new strategies to complete these tasks. This increased activity not only helps to maintain a person's muscular strength and joint mobility, but can also encourage a sense of achievement. This contributes to the development of a person's self-worth and self-esteem.
Improved self-confidence has motivated many of our Partners to realise their potential by learning new skills, enrolling at university/college, returning to work and living a more independent life.
Contributing to Independence
Canine Partners are trained in a variety of emergency responses and are ready to assist whenever needed; for example, to activate an alarm, fetch the 'phone or mobile and to get help. Imagine the confidence this can bring to a Partner and the peace of mind experienced by their family or friends. A Canine Partner has the ability to make the difference between reliance on a carer and independence.
