At Stokeshire Designer Doodles, we take pride in our puppies making a difference beyond the home. We’re excited to spotlight one of our exceptional dogs, Rocky, who has embarked on a remarkable journey as an Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) dog with Mobile Therapy Centers (MTC).

Rocky’s Journey: From Puppy to Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) Dog

Rocky, a charming Australian Mountain Doodle born in Spring 2023 from Nora x Apollo’s Litter, joined the MTC team at just 8 weeks old. With a blend of Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle, Rocky combines the best traits of these intelligent and loyal breeds. His early start at MTC was carefully planned to prepare him for a career in therapy.

Custom-Bred Excellence: How Our Testing Program and Empowered Breeding Practices Made Rocky Possible

At Stokeshire Designer Doodles, our commitment to creating exceptional therapy dogs is rooted in our custom-designed testing program and Empowered Breeding Practices. Rocky, an Australian Mountain Doodle, exemplifies the results of these dedicated efforts.

The Perfect Blend

Rocky is a unique mix of Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle—three breeds known for their intelligence, loyalty, and work ethic. This blend creates a dog that is not only a loving family companion but also an ideal candidate for therapy work.

Tailored Testing and Selection

Our specialized testing program ensures we select the best individual puppies for specific roles, such as therapy work. Rocky was chosen for his optimal personality and temperament, aligning perfectly with the needs of Mobile Therapy Centers’ (MTC) Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) program. Our rigorous testing protocol, based on Empowered Breeding Practices, evaluates factors such as socialization, response to stimuli, and behavioral traits, guaranteeing that each puppy is well-suited for their future role.

Collaborative Expertise

The success of our program is due to the collaboration between Stokeshire Designer Doodles, veterinarians, and trainers. Our team works together to ensure that every puppy, like Rocky, is prepared for a fulfilling role in therapy work from a young age. With our professional guidance and bespoke testing procedures, we can confidently match the right puppy with the right program, ensuring the best outcomes for both the dogs and the families they assist.

Rocky’s journey from a carefully selected puppy to a successful therapy dog underscores the effectiveness of our testing program and breeding practices. At Stokeshire Designer Doodles, we’re proud to contribute to the positive impact of our dogs in therapeutic settings, thanks to our commitment to excellence in breeding and training.

Celebrating Elaina Pagliarulo: A Visionary in Animal-Assisted Therapy

At Stokeshire Designer Doodles, we are constantly inspired by the individuals who make a profound difference in their fields, and today we want to shine a spotlight on someone who embodies dedication, passion, and professionalism in Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) – Elaina Pagliarulo.

A Visionary in Animal-assisted Therapy

Elaina's journey is a remarkable one, marked by a clear vision and unwavering commitment to enhancing therapeutic practices through the integration of animals. As an Animal-Assisted Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant at Mobile Therapy Centers of Illinois, Elaina has been instrumental in advancing the field of AAT. Her educational background in Occupational Therapy from McHenry County College and specialized training in Animal-Assisted Therapy from Husson University reflects her dedication to combining clinical expertise with the compassionate power of therapy animals.

Passion That Transforms Lives

Elaina's passion for her work is evident in every aspect of her approach. She understands that AAT is not just about incorporating animals into therapy sessions, but about creating a supportive and healing environment where patients can thrive. Her work exemplifies how the gentle presence of a therapy animal can break down emotional barriers, reduce stress, and foster a deeper connection between patients and their therapists.

Professionalism in Every Interaction

What sets Elaina apart is her exceptional professionalism. From her meticulous preparation and thoughtful application of therapeutic techniques to her genuine interactions with patients and colleagues, Elaina demonstrates an extraordinary level of care and skill. Her ability to seamlessly integrate therapy animals into her practice showcases her expertise and commitment to achieving the best outcomes for her clients.

A Grateful Acknowledgment

Elaina, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for your incredible contributions to the field of Animal-Assisted Therapy and your passion which motivated this projected. Your vision and passion have not only elevated the standards of therapy but have also made a significant impact on the lives of those you serve. Your professionalism and dedication are a true inspiration, and we are honored to highlight your work as an exemplary model of what can be achieved through commitment and compassion.

Early Socialization and Training

From day one, Rocky’s upbringing was focused on ensuring he would thrive in a therapy role. Our partner breeders and trainers played a crucial role in Rocky’s development. His socialization included positive interactions with people of all ages, other animals, and various environments. This early exposure helped Rocky build confidence and adaptability, essential traits for a therapy dog.

Rocky’s training began with basic obedience and progressed to specialized therapy skills. His training included:

Command Mastery: Commands like sit, stay, and down.
Noise Tolerance: Remaining calm amidst loud or unexpected sounds.
Gentle Interaction: Accepting treats and attention from both children and adults.
Patience and Focus: Maintaining composure and attention in diverse settings.

By the time Rocky was a year old, he was fully prepared to join MTC’s therapy program, where he has since made a significant impact.

Rocky’s Role at MTC

Rocky now participates in structured AAT sessions at MTC’s pediatric clinic in Libertyville, IL. His friendly and gentle demeanor helps provide comfort and support to clients and families, making therapy sessions more enjoyable and effective.

Celebrating Rocky’s Achievements

We’re proud to see Rocky flourishing in his role and bringing joy to so many. His journey from a Stokeshire Designer Doodle puppy to a valued therapy dog showcases the potential of our well-bred puppies and the difference they can make in the world.

Paws and Healing Power: How Stokeshire Designer Doodles Revolutionize Animal-Assisted Therapy

Introduction to Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Its Benefits for Healthcare

Imagine stepping into a therapy session and being welcomed not only by a counselor but also by an enthusiastic, wagging dog. This is the essence of Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT), a revolutionary approach that leverages the presence of animals, especially dogs, to foster healing in various healthcare environments. AAT goes beyond mere comfort; it is backed by compelling evidence showing that interactions with animals can greatly enhance emotional and physical well-being.

Integrating AAT into healthcare settings can lead to notable improvements such as reduced stress, lower blood pressure, and enhanced mood and emotional resilience. However, not all therapy dogs are equally effective. That’s where Stokeshire Designer Doodles steps in, offering a distinctive breed mix specifically designed for therapeutic roles.

Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is a therapeutic method that utilizes animals to boost individuals' well-being. This approach aims to enhance social, emotional, and cognitive functioning through engaging with animals.

Although AAT can involve a variety of animals, canine-assisted therapy—where dogs are utilized—is particularly effective for individuals with conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and autism. Research has demonstrated that interacting with therapy dogs can improve mood, alleviate feelings of isolation, and enhance overall emotional and physical health.

Therapy dogs undergo specialized training to provide comfort and support in therapeutic settings. They offer a soothing presence, help reduce stress, and encourage positive social interactions. For instance, therapy dogs can assist children in hospitals by easing anxiety and pain during medical procedures or by providing comfort during prolonged illnesses.

In summary, AAT with dogs offers significant benefits, making it a valuable complement to traditional therapeutic methods, particularly in environments like hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.

Stokeshire Designer Doodles: Redefining AAT

At Stokeshire Designer Doodles, we are redefining the role of therapy dogs through our specialized breeding program. Our Doodles are known for their gentle, friendly temperaments and exceptional trainability—qualities essential for effective therapy work. These dogs are more than pets; they are integral partners in the healing process, trained to provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support in healthcare settings. Their presence helps break down emotional barriers and fosters a trusting relationship between patients and therapists.

Our success in this field is due to our meticulous breeding and training process, which ensures that each dog is well-suited for therapeutic roles. Through careful selection and tailored training, we provide healthcare professionals with dogs that enhance the therapeutic experience and support effective interventions.

The Proprietary Blend of Breeds: AMD & GMD

What distinguishes Stokeshire Designer Doodles is our unique approach to breeding a blend of Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle. This carefully curated combination harnesses the best traits of each breed, resulting in therapy dogs that are exceptionally suited for their roles in clinical settings.

Australian Shepherds are renowned for their exceptional intelligence and high energy. These traits make them highly effective in engaging with patients and performing specialized tasks. Their sharp minds and enthusiasm enable them to quickly adapt to various therapeutic activities, making them active participants in the healing process.

Bernese Mountain Dogs contribute their calm demeanor and gentle nature to the mix. Known for their soothing presence, they provide a stabilizing influence, which is crucial for offering comfort and emotional support. Their affectionate and relaxed temperament helps create a serene environment, ideal for therapy sessions where stability and reassurance are needed.

Golden Retrievers bring their friendly and affectionate nature to the mix. Known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, Golden Retrievers are highly responsive and can quickly learn and adapt to therapy tasks. Their natural sociability and gentle demeanor make them excellent companions for individuals in need of emotional support.

Poodles are selected for their hypoallergenic coats and outstanding trainability. Their low-shedding fur is beneficial for maintaining a clean and allergy-friendly environment, while their quick learning abilities allow them to master commands and behaviors essential for effective therapy work. Poodles’ versatility and responsiveness make them adaptable to various therapeutic scenarios, ensuring they can meet the specific needs of different patients.

Our whelping and training/socialization approach is meticulously designed to ensure that our therapy dogs are not only healthy but also embody the optimal characteristics required for Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT).

Our Selective Breeding Process: Health, Temperament, and Trainability

Quality is paramount at Stokeshire Designer Doodles, and our selective breeding process is designed to achieve the highest standards of health, temperament, and trainability.

Our process starts with genetic testing to ensure breeding dogs are free from hereditary diseases, guaranteeing the health of future generations. We carefully select breeding pairs for their genetic soundness, temperament, and behavior, ensuring they meet the requirements for therapy work.

Trainability is a core focus. Puppies undergo early socialization and basic command training, setting the foundation for more advanced therapy-specific tasks. By the time they’re matched with healthcare facilities, they are well-prepared to make a positive impact.

Supporting Healthcare Clinics: Integrating AAT

Stokeshire Designer Doodles offers a comprehensive program to support the introduction of AAT into clinics. Our program includes consultation services to help clinics assess their needs and select dogs that align with their therapeutic goals. We work closely with healthcare staff to ensure a smooth integration of therapy dogs into treatment plans.

In addition to providing dogs, we offer ongoing support, including follow-up training, behavioral assessments, and access to a network of AAT professionals. This ensures that both clinics and dogs continue to thrive and deliver effective therapy.

Success Stories: Real-Life Impact

The success of Stokeshire Designer Doodles in AAT is evident in the heartwarming stories from clinics across the country. For example, a young patient with severe anxiety saw a noticeable reduction in symptoms during therapy sessions with a Stokeshire Doodle named Max. Max’s calming presence helped the patient engage more fully in treatment, leading to significant progress.

In another instance, a rehabilitation center saw remarkable results with a Stokeshire Doodle named Bella, who became an integral part of group therapy sessions. Bella’s playful yet gentle nature encouraged active participation and fostered a supportive environment that accelerated recovery.

The Future of AAT and Stokeshire's Mission

Looking ahead, Stokeshire Designer Doodles aims to further enhance AAT through ongoing research and development. We are committed to refining our breeding techniques and expanding our programs to reach underserved communities. By collaborating with academic institutions and healthcare organizations, we strive to build a greater understanding of AAT and its benefits.

The Impact of AAT and the Importance of Ethical Breeding

Animal-assisted therapy is transforming healthcare by offering a unique approach to patient care. Stokeshire Designer Doodles is at the forefront of this transformation, providing expertly bred therapy dogs that elevate the therapeutic experience.

Our commitment to ethical breeding ensures that our dogs are not only fit for therapy work but also contribute positively to the well-being of patients and healthcare professionals. For those interested in integrating AAT into their practice or learning more about the benefits of therapy dogs, Stokeshire Designer Doodles offers a powerful solution for enhancing patient care and promoting healing.

Learn More

To learn more about Rocky and the Animal-Assisted Therapy program at MTC, visit MTC’s website or call (847) 816-7200.

Special Acknowledgments

A heartfelt thank you to our partners who made Rocky’s journey possible:

Mobile Therapy Centers (MTC) – Our partners in therapy: MTC’s Website
Allison Bilinski – Expert dog trainer: abilinski1991@gmail.com

Meet Rocky: Stokeshire Designer Doodles' Featured Therapy Dog