While I have long admired those who train dogs to assist persons with congenital or acquired disabilities, I must admit to some skepticism when it comes to the current explosion of "therapy dogs" in American society.
No doubt, certain individuals with severe social anxiety might benefit from having a calm dog at their side but airports, hotels, restaurants, gyms and other human gathering sites are now awash with these canines; indeed, they must be admitted by these establishments due to anti-discrimination laws. On a recent visit to Denver International Airport, I saw dozens of therapy dogs (usually identified by a colorful vest), paraded down the concourse by their seemingly confident owners.
Just as happens with many other forms of medical and psychological treatment, the use of therapy dogs has become a cultural fad. How many of these owners truly need a pooch at their side? It is difficult to know for certain but I suspect, in many cases, the benefit extends well beyond the dog's calming effect.
