January 18, 2018
How resourceful are you?
After Hurricane Harvey, a photo went viral of a dog named Otis carrying a large bag of kibble down the street. Now that's resourceful!
Occupational therapist Melissa Winkle is one of the most resourceful people I've ever met. She finds ingenious ways to help her clients meet their goals--often by enlisting a dog to help!
Seventy percent of Melissa's clients are children. What could make going to therapy more fun than working with dogs? I can't think of anything.
With her team of canine assistants, Melissa creates individualized activities that engage her clients and teach them the skills they need to thrive.
Clockwise from top left: Lucy, Clementine, Woody, & Gertrude,
I asked Melissa if she would share a few videos of her dogs in action. Check out Clementine learning to use a snuffle ball below.
And here's Woody and a novice trainer learning to make beautiful music together.
Wait, is that a pig? Yep, Elvis auditioned for the dog band. To see a video of a cacaphonous an enthusiastic band of five dogs and trainers, The B-Dog Woofers, click this link.
To learn more about Melissa Winkle and her work, visit www.dogwoodtherapy.com. Also check out her books on Amazon!
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