September is National Service Dog Month, and what a great tribute to the pooches who support those who need it most! Therapy dogs are a special type of service dog. They provide comfort to persons in hospitals, nursing homes, schools – and even companies. USTA employee Jayla Kent arranged for three therapy dogs and their volunteer owners from Alliance of Therapy Dogs to visit the Lake Nona campus for interaction with USTA employees.

The dogs cuddled and interacted with employees in a calm and relaxed session. Other staff simply enjoyed watching the dogs as they worked the room. Jayla said, “The vibe was really great.” The dogs left with a goody bag of tennis balls and the gratitude of all the attendees.

Many of those at the session are leaving for the U.S. Open in New York, which begins soon. Jayla promised to have the therapy dogs back on the Lake Nona campus after the Open as a therapeutic welcome back.

Alliance of Therapy Dogs, based in Cheyenne, Wyoming, is a network of volunteers who have been offering their dogs to provide joy, smiles and comfort to people across the country. The Alliance selects “well-mannered, well-behaved dogs that enjoy meeting people,” and they arrange sessions such as the one held at USTA. The Alliance is a nonprofit and accepts donations. Further information is available at therapy dogs.com. 

Dogs are such a valuable part of our lives. Perhaps you and your dog would like to join this program. After all, your pooch is your home therapy, and you may want to share the love.