A ‘heeling’ presence
Therapy dogs can help patients lick some troubles one kiss at a time.

BY STEPHANIE INGERSOLL
BLUFFTON TODAY

There’s something healing about awet nose, soft whiskers and understanding eyes. Waggle can’t cure cancer, heart disease or dementia. But the laid back little Bluffton dog can help patients cope, forget about their troubles for a little while and even bring back memories.

For two years, Waggle has worked her magic as atherapy dog at two assisted living centers on Hilton Head Island. Soon, she’ll reach out to even more patients — those who perhaps need her atten- tion the most — thanks to a newly created “Hos-pets” program. The Hospice Care of the Lowcountry kicked off its new pet therapy program Thursday. Waggle and about 19 other certified Canine Good Citizens are already signed up and will soon begin visiting with terminally ill people in the patients’ own homes.

Another nine dogs are in training with Bluffton dog trainer Abby Bird, and there’s room for more. Studies have shown that pet therapy can have a tremendous impact on people who are ill, grieving or withdrawn, said David Warren, a member of Hospice Care of the Lowcountry’s community relations team. Their attention and touch help some patients relax and help others rekindle happy memories. It also helps break the ice with new patients and improves communication with staff.

“Dogs love unconditionally,” said Director of Community Relations Lynne Hummel. “People understand that. They don’t judge, they don’t talk back.”

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