I have recently added to my practice the use of my dog Tinky.  He is a 3 1/2 year old black Standard Poodle and was named by my daughter.  Tinky has recently been certified with the AKC Canine Good Citizen Certification and with Therapy Dog International certification.  I have always had a dream to use a dog in a therapeutic setting and purchased Tinky for that reason when he was 12 weeks old.  He has been trained in obedience and is tested for safe consistent appropriate behavior.  


Tinky is eager to meet clients and if they welcome him he will stay till they ask him to go lay down.  I do have clients that do not need Tinks as a part of their therapy and he will stay away in that case.  I have found that often when someone comes to therapy opening up to a therapist one on one is a little intimidating and with Tinky, he is there to ease the transition that we often need for a successful therapeutic session.  With Tinky's help he is there to facilitate the opening of thoughts and feelings which naturally occur when the positive energy from a unconditionally loving animal is brought into the setting. 

I have used Tinky with all ages and genders of clients, he is comforable with them all and always enjoys meeting a new friend.  He often will come out to the waiting room to visit in between client time.

If you have any concerns or questions regarding Tinky, please do not hesitate to call or email me.