A day out with Nuna, the therapy dog of UZ hospital Ghent
in DefaultLaroy Group supports the therapy dogs of UZ hospital Ghent with a variety of products such as snacks, collars, leashes and harnesses, toys, cushions, a crate, a doghouse, a pet trailer, and much more. A generous gift for Nuna, Nina, and Jack who play a special role in the recovery of patients with psychological problems and anxiety disorders. More about the collaboration.
Meet Nuna, the therapy dog
Wednesday is an exceptional day in the psychiatry department of UZ Gent. Because on that day, a special co-therapist comes to work, one with a tail and four legs, Nuna. This blonde Labrador has a special history, one of loneliness, lack of attention or boundaries, and being abandoned. A story that some patients also recognize.
Selected as the perfect co-therapist
In working with a dog as a therapy aid, there is a selection process for both the dog and the owner, done by #AAPvzw. It is important that the dog can handle the task, enjoys play and contact, and can inspire people.
Additionally, it is also important that the owner recognizes signals from the dog, namely when it becomes tired or when boundaries need to be set for behavior they find unpleasant.
The course of a therapeutic session
It is the task of the AAI therapist (which stands for Animal Assisted Intervention) to guide both the patient and the dog through the AAI sessions. Objectives are set beforehand, generally for the group, more specifically for the individual, and appropriate for Nuna. Possible goals include experiencing fun in play, providing motor activation, challenging cognition, stimulating cooperation, practicing assertiveness, giving and receiving trust, etc. The materials donated by Laroy Group are also collected and set up in advance.
An example of such a task is working in pairs to come up with an obstacle using the bodies of the duo. The conditions are that it poses a challenge for Nuna or themselves and that the obstacle is safe for all parties. Another team guides Nuna in overcoming the obstacles and must seek alignment. During and after the activities, there is a reward in the form of play, cookies, or rest.