Therapy with Four Legs and a Tail

By Dan Nonte, University Relations

Contact: (336) 334-4314

Posted 1-14-08

GREENSBORO, NC – A two-day training course to train people in animal-assisted therapy will be held 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Jan. 19 and 2-6 p.m. Jan. 20 at the North Campus of Gateway University Research Park in Browns Summit.

Dr. Linda Buettner, a professor of recreation, tourism and hospitality management at UNCG and a therapeutic recreation specialist, will lead the Pet Partners Team Training Course. Animal therapy uses domesticated animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and even goats to visit hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, schools and any location where animal therapy is needed.

“People who live in nursing homes often have had to give their dogs away,” she said. “For people who have grown up with dogs or farm animals this is a tremendous hole in their hearts.”

The course is limited to 20 people and training animals are provided. Participants must be at least 10 years old, and those younger than 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The cost is $75 for adults and $50 for all students. No prior animal therapy experience is necessary.

For more information, contact llbuettn@uncg.edu or (336) 334-5327. The North Campus of the research park is located near Bryan Park at 5900 Summit Ave.