Therapy Dogs

Because of their unique ability to reach out and love unconditionally, therapy dogs can lift moods and relieve anxiety, fear and loneliness. Just a simple touch can go a long way in restoring health.

How It Works

Volunteer handlers bring their registered therapy dogs for visits to patient rooms, waiting rooms and rehabilitation sites at various Altru locations. Patient visits usually last 10 to 15 minutes. Patients are invited to pet the dog and ask the handler questions.

Therapy dog visits are not only beneficial to patients. They can help reduce stress and provide comfort to families and visitors.

Meet Brita

Brita is a friendly, multilingual Giant Schnauzer who continues to grow her American Sign Language (ASL) skills, creating meaningful connections with patients and visitors who communicate through ASL. She participates in TEARS & Alzheimer Walks, enjoys visiting local public schools, and loves chasing rabbits, ear scratches, car rides, walks, and being talked or signed to.

Meet Bob

Bob is a joyful Standard Poodle with a big personality and an even bigger heart. He loves running around like a nut, playing with his favorite stuffed toys, and going for walks and car rides. Bob also enjoys watching animals on TV and truly shines during therapy visits. A unique talent—he understands ASL (American Sign Language), which makes his connections even more special.

Meet Rudy

Rudy is a lovable Black Lab who can’t resist fetching any ball or toy—a true retriever at heart. He also enjoys playing with his favorite teddy bear, savoring Milk‑Bone® treats and Pup Cups (especially from Starbucks), and chewing on his Kong toys. Rudy has a special love for children, particularly his two human siblings. Originally bred as a pheasant hunting dog—and excellent at it—he later discovered his true calling as a therapy dog, where his gentle nature truly shines.

Meet Reese

Reese is a fun‑loving mixed breed with a big personality. She enjoys dancing, running agility obstacles like tunnels and the A‑frame, and solving dog puzzles. Reese also loves Squish mallows, donuts, and breakfast sausage. She is an AKC Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced Trick Dog, as well as an AKC Canine Good Citizen. Double‑certified as a therapy dog (LOAL and ATD), Reese shares her home with two cat sisters and two horse siblings—and even runs 5K and 10K races alongside her human.

Meet Charlotte

Charlotte is a gentle Great Dane who loves soaking up pets, enjoying any kind of treat, and going for car rides. She’s always happy to nap, take walks, or play a game of fetch. A certified therapy dog and a self proclaimed lap dog, Charlotte brings calm comfort and smiles wherever she goes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a patient or family member make a request for a pet therapy visit?

Request a pet therapy visit through your provider or the nursing staff in your department. Pending approval by your department, the request will be sent to the therapy dog team. The therapy dog team will make every effort to fill special requests for visits.

What is the difference between a service dog, a therapy dog, and a companion dog?

Service dogs are working dogs. They do not want to be touched because they have a job to do. Conversely, therapy dogs love to be stroked and snuggled. Companion dogs will assist and provide companionship to individuals.

Are the therapy dogs residents of Altru?

No. All dogs in the Altru therapy dog program are the personal pets of their volunteer handlers.

My dog is really nice. Can I bring him/her in to visit?

Certified therapy dogs are not your average family pet. They go through extensive training to become gentle-natured in all circumstances. Beyond therapy or service dogs, we do not allow outside pets.

I’m scared of dogs. What if I don’t want to be around a therapy dog?

Therapy dogs sense who does and doesn’t like them. They understand the human vibe, and know who to approach and who not to approach. Therapy dogs will only visit patient rooms per the patient’s consent. Additionally, therapy dogs are always with their handler.

I’m allergic to dogs. Will the therapy dog make me sick?

The dander of therapy dogs is well controlled. The risk is very minimal.

What about safety and infection control?

Altru’s therapy dogs are screened for appropriate behavior. They have been evaluated and trained to be therapy dogs. They are required to be clean and vaccinated.

How do we become a Therapy Dog Team at Altru?

All Altru therapy dog teams have been evaluated, and hold membership in a pet therapy organization, such as Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

Contact Volunteer Services at 701.780.5125 for more information.