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Animal Assisted Therapy with Tucker
Tucker is a four-year-old Leonberger and Kiersten’s therapy partner. Tucker received a perfect score in his level-one obedience class through Tracken Kennel Academy and continues to develop his therapy training.
In our sessions together, Tucker is available for snuggles, comic relief, and the occasional squishing (he often forgets his size when he becomes a lap dog!). The most wonderful thing about having Tucker in therapy is his ability to see people and support them when needed. His grounded presence creates a calm and enjoyable atmosphere for his humans.
Tucker’s favourite things are walks by (in) the river, couch snuggles, napping, road trips, hotdogs, and meeting new people and animals.
Tucker is in the office two days per week. If you would like him to be present in your session, please let us know and we will align your session with his. We will also explain his role and how we can work with him.
Why Animal Assisted Therapy?
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a compassionate therapeutic approach that includes an animal as part of the healing process. Research suggests that the presence of an animal in therapy can support positive outcomes by helping clients feel more at ease, connected, and supported. Animals naturally encourage emotional co-regulation and can make it easier to build trust through their calm, accepting presence and unconditional positive regard. Animal-assisted therapy can be a meaningful support for children, adolescents, teens, adults, and groups, offering a gentle and relational way to explore concerns and support emotional well-being.
Below is a quick example of how you can incorporate a simple and effective grounding tool with, not only Tucker, but your own animals as well!