Our therapy dogs
Oskar & Smokey – animal support with heart and experience
At the Maienplatz Center, we not only have experienced therapists but also two four-legged colleagues who provide support with great sensitivity, calmness, and joy for life: Oskar, a friendly Labradoodle, and Smokey, a sensitive Australian Shepherd.
Both are trained therapy dogs and an integral part of our team.
What therapy dogs can achieve
Therapy dogs can reach people in a special way – often without words. Their presence is calming, motivating, and empowering. They create closeness, foster trust, and bring warmth to situations that may be filled with uncertainty, fear, or tension.
Oskar and Smokey are especially involved in occupational and speech therapy – supporting both children and adults – and help with:
- building emotional security
- increasing concentration and motivation
- promoting social skills
- reducing anxiety
- overcoming fear of touch
With great sensitivity, they adapt to each situation – whether during an initial meeting or as part of ongoing therapy.
Two colleagues with character
Breed: Labradoodle
Born: September 13, 2021
Favorite treat: Snackies Lamb
Special skills:
- Very empathetic – senses emotional changes.
- People-oriented and curious.
- Intuitively recognizes how much closeness a person can allow.
- Mirror of one's own mood – especially helpful for ADHD.
How Oskar helps:
- Stress relief and calming
- Motivation and distraction – e.g., in cases of concentration problems
- Mood booster for young and old
- Companion for patients with dementia or bedridden individuals
- Promotes targeted movements – for example, by giving treats with the affected hand for neurological patients
Breed: Mini Australian Shepherd
Born: December 28, 2023
Favorite treat: Everything – especially cheese, banana, and apple.
Special skills:
- Enthusiastic about trick training (e.g., sitting up, spinning, rolling over, paw).
- Loves playing with balloons.
- Extremely fond of children – patient and playful.
- He even willingly gives children his toys (which he doesn't do with adults!).
How Smokey helps:
- As an "icebreaker" in new or emotionally charged situations.
- Motivation and mood enhancement.
- Supports during crisis moments (e.g., during crying fits or frustration).
- Mirror of one's own behavior – especially valuable in dealing with ADHD.
- Promotes self-esteem through positive interaction.
Together, they enrich our daily practice – for patients of all ages.
With heart, snout, and a keen sense: Therapy dogs Oskar & Smokey – bringing more closeness, ease, and trust to therapy.
Good to know
Get in touch with us!
Do you have any questions about therapy with our two furry colleagues?
