The Power of Therapy Dogs in Building Connection

Therapy dogs offer more than comfort—they help create a safe, supportive environment where clients can open up. Research shows that interacting with a dog can lower stress hormones and increase oxytocin, the bonding hormone. In therapy, this often translates into reduced anxiety, quicker rapport, and greater openness.

For clients hesitant to share, the presence of a therapy dog can ease silence and tension. Even during telehealth, a dog beside the therapist can improve engagement. These small but meaningful shifts help bridge gaps in communication and make therapy feel approachable.

Animal-assisted therapy provides lasting benefits—calmness, joy, and connection often extend beyond the session itself.