Dog Therapy Appreciation Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Dog Therapy Appreciation Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Dog Therapy Appreciation Day is celebrated on April 11th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Dog Therapy Appreciation Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as fun facts you might want to know about Dog Therapy Appreciation Day.

📅 What day is Dog Therapy Appreciation Day 2024?

In 2024, Dog Therapy Appreciation Day is on Tuesday, April 11th. It is the 2nd Tuesday in April; in 2024, it is Thursday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the cool details and facts about April 11, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Each year, on April 11, we celebrate Dog Therapy Appreciation Day to pay tribute to the dogs that bring us comfort by serving as therapy dogs. These special canines undergo rigorous testing and certification processes to be able to visit hospitals and nursing homes, where they provide solace to patients. Therapy dogs are often beloved pets that have undergone training to fulfill this important role. On this day, we express our gratitude to dogs for bringing joy into our lives.

📜 Dog Therapy Appreciation Day History

Sigmund Freud was interested in the connection between humans and animals and introduced the idea of the Human-Animal Bond. He believed that people need interaction with animals and their surroundings in order to function normally in their everyday lives. Freud himself used his cat to provide comfort to his patients. In the 1940s, the American Red Cross employed farm animals to aid in the recovery of injured or sick combat soldiers. Taking care of these animals served as a distraction from the hardships of war for the veterans.

In the 1960s, Dr. Boris Levinson discovered that his dog had a positive impact on mentally challenged teenage patients. He observed that patients were more comfortable and friendly with their pets compared to other humans. Numerous studies have shown that owning a pet can contribute to a longer and happier life. Dogs, in particular, can lower the risk of heart disease, and for those who have already experienced heart disease, having a dog or cat can decrease the likelihood of another heart attack.

✅ Dog Therapy Appreciation Day Facts

🔖 Dogs can help ease autism symptoms
Around 81.8% of children with autism have a strong preference for playing with dogs compared to other activities, and when they interact with pets, they might experience and express emotions similar to those of neurotypical individuals.

🔖 Any dog can be a therapy dog
Therapy dogs are often selected from stray or shelter dogs that have undergone extensive training. The suitability of a dog for therapy work is determined by its individual personality and its ability to respond positively to training.

🔖 The first formal therapy dog program
Elaine Smith pioneered the development of a therapy dog program in 1976.

👍 Why Is Dog Therapy Appreciation Day Important

This day honors animals and their contributions to human lives. This day is dedicated to showing love to our furry friends.

The human-animal relationship is unique and extremely important. This day promotes strengthening the link between humans and animals.

This day increases awareness of the beneficial effects of dog therapy on individuals. It disseminates information about how important it is to people.

🙂 How To Observe Dog Therapy Appreciation Day

⚡ Appreciate therapy dogs

⚡ Pet a dog
On this special day, show your love and care for dogs by celebrating and spending time with them. Interacting with these furry friends not only brings joy and good health to humans but also makes the dogs feel loved and valued.

⚡ Adopt a pet
Thank the therapy dogs for their efforts. Make sure they get the rewards they deserve.

📅 When is Dog Therapy Appreciation Day?

Discover all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Animal and other 🔗 Dog holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about Dog Therapy Appreciation Day. So be sure to check back soon.