As detection dogs, they have long been on the list of employees of the Red Cross Tyrol. The use of therapy assistance dogs is new. Innsbruck starts now. The possible applications are very diverse.
Medic is a smart boy with a gentle nature. The Red Cross advertising slogan “For the love of man” could easily have been his. Doctor can’t just write it down. He is a dog and has other qualities. He is now doing pioneering work with the Red Cross in Innsbruck. Therapy assistance dogs have been trained there since 2021. The first squadron of seven quadrupeds is now complete and ready to go into service.
Used for house calls, in schools or at home
“There are many possible uses,” explains medics mistress and team leader Klara Zösmayr, “they can accompany us as part of visiting services. Dogs are fantastic mediators and bringers of joy. We can work with them in schools so that children learn to deal with animals or reduce the fear of animals. You can help seniors stay physically and mentally fit.” The first positive experiences have also been gained in hospice work.
The demand is high, the tasks are increasing
The Red Cross Innsbruck is still at the beginning with the new offer. But Zösmayr is convinced that the initiative can have a broad impact. For example, it is conceivable that psychotherapists will be supported because dogs can quickly access people and help them open up. In any case, the demand for the new Red Cross employees is already high. The second training round has already started.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
