Call 902-463-5646 (NS) Call 709-726-4200 (NL&LAB) Call 506-458-9129 (NB)
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CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF THE ST. JOHN AMBULANCE THERAPY DOG PROGRAM
WHAT IS THE 30FOR30 PROJECT?
We wanted to celebrate the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program and an extraordinary 30 years of meaningful contributions to communities across Canada.
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Since its beginning in 1992, the program has grown to an incredible 3900 Therapy Dog teams that have made an impact on countless lives. The goal of this project is to engage volunteers and recognize their dedication and passion for improving the quality of life of Canadians. These volunteers truly embody the mission and values of St. John Ambulance. After a period of nominations, we gathered 10 Therapy Dog Teams from each council in The Atlantic Region. We completed interviews with each of the volunteers chosen, and compiled their stories on this website!
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Check out the 30 stories by clicking on the tabs across the top of this page or in the drop-down menu!
ABOUT THE THERAPY DOG PROGRAM!
The St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program reaches out to thousands of people across Canada on a daily basis bringing comfort, joy, and companionship to members of the community who are sick, lonely, reside in long-term care and mental health facilities; are in hospitals, schools, and library settings and so much more. Program participants reap the therapeutic benefits of the unconditional companionship of a four-legged friend.
PROGRAM BENEFITS
The program offers many benefits and opportunities to improve quality of life. Some of the reported benefits include Greater social engagement with individuals/residents, participating in more activities, smiling more, stress relief and distraction from pain, comfort, and calming.Â
The program varies across Canada based on community needs and the availability of volunteers. Therapy dogs routinely offer comfort and companionship in senior residences and care facilities, to students stressing out about exams, school-aged children with reading challenges, people residing in the hospitals, and so much more.
HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED?
Prospective Therapy Dogs must be at least 1 year old and have the required vaccinations. We are looking for social, friendly, and calm dogs with handlers who are interested in giving back to their community! Please check with your local SJA branch to fill out an application and find out more!
Visit sja.ca and click the volunteer tab!
