A pack of dogs in Montana is fulfilling a role to help people feel better, according to a published report.
Certified to work alongside speech, occupational and physical therapists, the dogs in Missoula began serving as more than human's best friends earlier this month, according to KTVQ. Instructor Debbie Wing, who helped issue the certification, told the news source that pets fill a role in providing comfort that people can not.
"We're working either with a speech therapist, an occupational or a physical therapist," dog owner Lynn Kruckenberg told the news source, also noting how she praises Jass, the name of her dog. "Every time we see a patient I will tell her what a good girl she is and I'll give her a pet."
One dog owner said her dog is very friendly to all people who are seeking the therapy. But the dog also has an uncanny ability to devote an increased amount of attention to someone who is enduring high amounts of stress. In other words, the dog exceptionally fulfills the responsibility of people holding occupational therapy jobs.
Physical therapists work in a variety of places including hospitals, outpatient clinics and private offices, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.