It can be difficult for disabled people to communicate. A visiting pet outreach dog encourages them to express themselves.

by Animal Medical Center

Judy and her Pomeranian, Kit, have been on many pet outreach visits. In large rooms, Judy starts by throwing a ball to Kit.  Judy then gives the ball to others to throw.  They are thrilled when the dog responds to them.  Those that aren’t able to throw the ball enjoy watching.

On one visit, Judy encountered two white-haired women who were totally blind.  She put Kit in the lap of one of ladies.  The woman took her friend’s hand and showed her how to pet the dog. Judy was so moved watching the one woman help the other.

At an outpatient program for people with mental illness, Kit helps staffers gain information about the backgrounds of people in the program.  While Kit plays with the participants, they often begin reminiscing about their own experiences.  One participant often talks about his own dog, while another shares pictures of his pet.