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Therapy Dog

By offering gentle, comforting companionship in session, licensed therapy dogs work to create a welcoming, supportive environment that helps clients of all ages feel at ease during their mental health journey.

Our Therapy Dog

Chester

River Valley is excited to introduce Kiki Burdgorf and her licensed therapy dog, Chester!
 
Chester is a gentle, extroverted sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog) who loves to meet new people of all ages, provide comforting companionship, and of course have his belly rubbed. He is a licensed therapy dog, certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, and is available on select days to join clients during their therapy session. Chester completed his training through Canine Inspired Change. When he is not working, you can find him playing fetch, snacking on mango, or napping in the sun.
Kiki Burgdorf and Chester's bio

The Physiology of Comfort: How Therapy Dogs Lower Stress

At a biological level, interacting with a therapy companion acts as a rapid “reset button” for a hyper-reactive nervous system. Clinical studies show that petting or sitting near a therapy dog lowers cortisol (the primary stress hormone) while boosting oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. This neurochemical shift decreases heart rate and blood pressure, shifting clients out of a “fight-or-flight” survival state and into a physiological state of safety and rest.

Breaking Down Emotional Barriers in Session

In a therapeutic setting, a dog serves as a unique emotional bridge between the client and the practitioner. Because dogs offer unconditional, non-judgmental acceptance, their presence reduces the intimidation or anxiety that can come with traditional talk therapy. Clients—especially children and teens—often find it easier to vocalize difficult emotions or process trauma while physically grounding themselves by petting or sitting with a dog, which helps lower psychological defenses.

Building Emotional Regulation and Social Skills

Dogs are incredibly perceptive to human behavior, making them excellent live “co-regulators” during a session. Under the guidance of a clinician, clients can use the dog’s real-time reactions to practice mindfulness. For instance, as a client notices their own anxiety rising, they can practice deep breathing to soothe both themselves and the animal. This interactive dynamic provides immediate feedback, helping clients build self-awareness and emotional resilience they can use in everyday life.