At JPII, there are a bunch of ways to get involved. One way to help out is to volunteer and we don’t just mean your time, but your dog’s time too :).
Currently, we have two Therapy Dogs – Lucy (pictured), and Ricoh – that come to visit. Pet Therapy has all sorts of awesome benefits and is used in wide-range of ways, from helping college students manage stress to post-disaster therapeutic session.
Mental Health Benefits
- Helps with depression
- Encourages communication
- Can increase socialization
- Helps to reduce anxiety
- Aids in overcoming speech and emotional disorders
Physical Health Benefits
- Lowers blood pressure
- Releases calming endorphins
- Lowers overall physical pain
- Improves cardiovascular health
Physical Therapy
- Helps to increase joint movement
- Can improve recovery time
- Helps to maintain and increase motor skills
Thank you to our volunteers who help out our students and adults by donating their time (and their dog’s time)!
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