Therapy training dogs learn to help patients

Simon Parry, who is fostering Snowflake; and Vicki Parry with Siberian Husky Ada - the first animal-assisted intervention dog for those with diabetes. Photo/Stuart Munro

Dogs are man's best friend - an old saying borne out by Kotuku Foundation therapy dogs, which are trained to assist humans.

Merenia Donne, of Kotuku Foundation, said there were branches in Wellington, Christchurch, New Plymouth and Waitara as well as Wanganui.

"Therapy dogs are based on research and is a whole concept of animal-assisted intervention," Ms Donne said.

Ada, a Siberian husky, would be the first therapy dog to be trained to help those with diabetes.

Ms Donne has had her Alsatian Rica since 2006 and he is trained to help her with everyday living.

Aucklanders Simon and Vicki Parry were in Wanganui to meet with Ms Donne at the weekend.

The Parrys are fostering Snowflake the greyhound, which Ms Donne says will possibly remain in Auckland once she is trained.

The Kotuku Foundation charity is aligned with Animal Assisted Intervention International (AAIN), a non-profit organisation that caters to Animal Assisted Intervention within professional healthcare and social service settings.

AAII members are individuals or organisations. In the membership are occupational therapists, speech therapists, nurses, counsellors, and professional animal trainers who train animals and their humans specifically for this level of professional work.

Animals are included in their healthcare, social service, and educational interventions and practices.

For more information about Kotuku Foundation: kotuku-foundation-aaa@hotmail.com