Together + Strong (Sagrat Cor University Hospital)
1,396
patients have benefited
3
helper dogs
Why we created this programme
Through interaction with therapy dogs in different activities and dynamics, we are working on improving patients’ mobility, physical stamina, strength in the limbs and reducing the risk of falls, among other things. On an emotional level, physical contact with the animal helps reduce anxiety and improves patients’ mood. Animals are also a great motivator for them. Many have spent a long period in hospital and have lost a lot of muscle mass, mobility and autonomy. Working with dogs makes them forget about their difficulties and motives them to overcome them.
The simple presence of animals makes these people feel more supported and increases their motivation to attend and take part. Animals create a feeling of fun, sessions go by faster, and many patients feel less pain when doing the exercises.
How the programme works
What are the programme’s objectives?
To improve adherence to sessions
To improve stability and reduce the risk of falls
To improve fine and gross motor skills
To improve balance
To reduce levels of stress and anxiety
To improve cognitive functions
What types of exercises are done?
Throwing treats to dogs
Working on parallel bars
Throwing balls into baskets
Shooting balls into a goal
Climbing stairs and throwing hoops
Memory exercises for cognitive improvement