Therapy dogs provide physical and emotional comfort to people of all ages who may be ill or injured. Places where therapy dogs may perform their services are:

• Hospitals
• Hospices
• Nursing Homes
• Institutions for disturbed children or adults
  

Therapy dogs offer unconditional love and acceptance to people when they need it most. Studies have shown that pets can help lower blood pressure and heart rate. Therapeutic effects of dogs have been recognized by those who work with the dying, stroke victims, people with brain injuries, and disturbed children. Even a simple interaction with a dog such as petting, can strengthen hands and arms. Often the dog can bridge the distance between therapist and patient to promote healing.

Therapy dog Maggie comforts the mother of a dying man.	SAR Dog Yogi comforts his friend Larry in a care center.
SAR Dog Valorie and Harry Oakes comfort a Turkish child in a hospital after an earthquake.	SAR Dog Yogi comforts Honduran children following Hurricane Mitch.