Trained to provide affection and emotional support in diverse settings, therapy dogs play a vital role in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and community events.
The therapeutic benefits of dogs have been acknowledged by influential mental health professionals such as Florence Nightingale, Sigmund Freud, and Elaine Smith. Heart Dogs NT, through Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI), employs Wellness Companion Dogs to support professional goals. The collaboration between the Wellness Dog Handler and Heart Dogs NT is dedicated to delivering meaningful experiences for individuals and groups.
Animal Assisted Interventions offer a range of benefits, including improved concentration and mood, empowerment of self-expression for young people, enhanced literacy and numeracy skills, reduced anxiety levels, mindfulness, decreased stress hormones (Cortisol), increased feel-good hormones (Oxytocin), a safe environment, emotional, social, and physical support, lowered heart rate, behavior interruption and improvement, relaxation, and more.
Heart Dogs NT comprises qualified individuals, including those with diplomas in Animal Assisted Therapies and Educational Psychology, registered teachers, and teachers’ aides. Our trained and social dogs are matched to individual or group needs, whether for relaxation, learning tricks, seeking attention, or catering to specific requirements.
As a member of Animal Assisted Therapies LTD, Heart Dogs NT prioritizes people-oriented, cuddly dogs that love interacting with individuals of all ages and sizes. We support mental health initiatives in the workplace, participate in public and private events, and facilitate ice-breaking sessions during workplace training and team-building exercises.
Whether it’s mental health days, public events, or visits to schools, retirement homes, and care facilities, the Heart Dog Therapy Team at PAWS Darwin is flexible to accommodate various needs. Our therapy dogs are sure to bring delight and joy to those under your care.
Notably, Heart Dogs NT also contributes to the local training of service dogs.
Meet Our Therapy Dogs
Kaidee
Meet Kaidee, our four-year-old Cocker Spaniel, a true heart dog with a special gift for spreading comfort and warmth. 🐾 Kaidee’s gentle and caring nature makes her not just a companion but a natural therapy dog. She has an innate ability to provide solace through cuddles and bring a sense of peace to those around her.
With a heart as big as her floppy ears, Kaidee is the epitome of unconditional love. Whether you’re seeking a cuddle buddy or a furry therapist, Kaidee is ready to share her affectionate spirit. Embrace the healing power of canine companionship with Kaidee, your loyal friend and dedicated therapy dog. 🌈🐶 #KaideeTheTherapyDog #HeartDog #CuddleExpert
Donnie
Introducing Donnie, our vibrant 6-month-old Cocker Spaniel with energy that’s infectious! 🐾 Donnie is the epitome of enthusiasm, with a heart full of love for everyone he meets. His zest for life is contagious, turning every moment into a joyous adventure. Whether he’s bouncing with excitement or showering affection on those around him, Donnie is the embodiment of pure, unbridled energy and love. Ready to light up your world with his wagging tail and boundless enthusiasm, Donnie is the perfect addition for anyone seeking a furry bundle of happiness! 🌟🐶 #DonnieTheCockerSpaniel #EnergeticPup #JoyfulCompanion
Introducing Donnie, our dynamic 6-month-old Cocker Spaniel who’s not just a bundle of energy but a heartwarming therapy dog in the making! 🌟 Donnie’s enthusiasm is boundless, and his love knows no bounds – he’s a social butterfly, adoring everyone he meets with tail wags and affectionate charm.
Beyond his playful exuberance, Donnie possesses a special quality that sets him on the path to becoming a therapy dog. His innate ability to connect and spread joy makes him the perfect companion for those seeking comfort and companionship. Donnie isn’t just a pup; he’s a furry ray of sunshine ready to bring smiles and warmth wherever he goes. 🐾❤️ #DonnieTheTherapyPup #HeartDog #SpreadJoyWithDonnie
Daly
Meet Daly, our delightful 6-month-old Cocker Spaniel, a charming blend of fun and gentle grace. While Daly shares the energy of youth with a playful spirit, there’s a touch of maturity that sets him apart. His warm, soulful eyes reflect a more serious side, emphasizing a calm and composed demeanor.
Daly is not just your average pup; he’s a smoochy sweetheart, showering affection with a gentleness that warms the heart. His soothing presence makes him a natural therapy dog, bringing comfort and joy to those around him. Daly is the perfect companion for those seeking a balance of playfulness and serenity, making every moment with him a precious experience. 🐾💙 #DalyTheCockerSpaniel #GentleCompanion #TherapyDogInTraining
Sparkie
Meet Sparkie, the remarkable 5-year-old Koolie with a heart as big as his bag of tricks! 🌟 Sparkie is not just a boy; he’s a canine virtuoso, dazzling everyone with his impressive repertoire of tricks. This interactive dynamo thrives on making noise and spreading joy, especially when it comes to entertaining young people and children.
Sparkie’s talent extends beyond mere entertainment – he’s a therapy dog at heart. With a natural affinity for connecting with youngsters, Sparkie brings smiles and laughter wherever he goes. His lively spirit and interactive charm make him the perfect companion for those seeking a furry friend to brighten the day. Get ready for an unforgettable experience with Sparkie, the therapy dog with boundless energy and a heart full of tricks! 🐾🌈 #SparkieTheTrickster #HeartDog #TherapyDogExtraordinaire
ROSIE
Meet Rosie, our delightful Poodle with a heart as fluffy as her curls! 🌈 At nearly 2 years old, Rosie embodies happiness and friendliness in every wag of her tail. With her irresistibly cute appearance and gentle demeanor, she is the epitome of a heart dog.
But Rosie is not just a bundle of joy; she’s a natural therapy dog. Her sunny disposition and friendly nature make her the perfect companion for spreading warmth and comfort. Whether you need a furry friend for a pick-me-up or a sweet face to brighten your day, Rosie is here with open paws and a heart full of love. Embrace the therapeutic magic of Rosie, your lovable and adorable canine companion! 🐩💖 #RosieTheTherapyPoodle #HeartDog #SpreadJoyWithRosie
BLOSSOM
Meet Blossom, the Labrador with boundless exuberance and an overflowing heart of love! 🌸 Blossom is not just a dog; she’s a living testament to the joy that radiates from an exuberant and energetic spirit. Her love knows no bounds, and her enthusiasm is contagious.
Blossom is more than a furry friend; she’s a therapy dog, bringing warmth and comfort to those in need. Her loving nature and playful energy make her the perfect companion for spreading joy and lifting spirits. Whether you’re in search of a loyal friend or a therapeutic presence, Blossom is here, ready to share her love and bring a smile to your face. 🐾💕 #BlossomTheTherapyLabrador #HeartDog #UnconditionalLove
For more information and bookings please email heartdogs@pawsdarwin.org
