04/01/2026
Meet Oscar — Therapy Dog in Training! 🐾
Hello lovely community 💙
As many of you know, Reflexions Therapy Services is about supporting emotional wellbeing, connection and healing in ways that feel safe and respectful for each individual.
So today I’m thrilled to introduce you to someone who’s quickly become an important part of what we do…
🐶 Meet Oscar, our Therapy Dog in Training!
Oscar has already met many of our clients when he was just a tiny puppy, and it has been heart-warming to see the connections he’s made along the way. He’s gentle, kind, intuitive, and already valued by many who have met him. We are working towards him becoming an accredited therapy dog, and are excited about the role he may play in supporting emotional engagement and comfort in therapeutic work.
Important information about Oscar and sessions:
�• Oscar does not have to be present in session if you would prefer he isn’t, your comfort is always the priority.�• He may not be available for every session unless this has been discussed as part of your therapy plan.
Having a friendly canine presence as part of therapy work isn’t just enjoyable, there’s research showing real benefits. Studies indicate that animal-assisted interventions with dogs can help children and young people improve emotional regulation and interaction during therapeutic activities, and may support engagement in a way that feels less intimidating than traditional therapy alone.
(See references below)
We feel very grateful for Oscar’s contribution so far, and look forward to continuing this journey with all of you, whether four-legged support is part of your sessions or not 🐕💛
If you have any questions about Oscar, his training, or how animal-supported work may fit with your therapy, feel free to get in touch.
With care,�Reflexions Therapy Services�www.reflexions.org.uk
Schuck, S. E. B., et al. (2024).�Effects of dog-assisted therapy on emotional attunement and emotion regulation in children and adolescents: A randomized controlled trial.
Nimer, J., & Lundahl, B. (2007).�Animal-assisted therapy: A meta-analysis.
Parish-Plass, N. (2013).�Animal-assisted psychotherapy: Theory, issues, and practice.