The S.T.A.R.S. K-9 Program

S.T.A.R.S. has long believed in the value of animal-assisted therapy and extends its programming to include specially trained and certified canine partners. Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) utilizes animals for occupational, physical, speech, or psychological therapy.

We use dogs in a variety of techniques: increasing patient grip strength and range of motion through petting, increasing stamina by standing to complete various tasks with the dogs, and improving walking, balance, and endurance by walking a dog. Patients also work on memory, sequencing, problem solving, speech, and reading improvements. Many patients often forget their fears, limitations, and pain when completing therapy with an animal, whether it be riding a horse or with a dog.

The S.T.A.R.S. K-9 program is one way we’re extending the gift of animals to new modes of therapy, stress relief, and sources of motivation and self-confidence. We currently have 30 certified therapy dogs and certified handlers serving St. Luke's Regional Medical Center, Bickford Memory Care Unit, Sioux City Physical Therapy, the Sioux City Public Library, Dakota City Schools, and other locations in the Siouxland area.

Learn more about the S.T.A.R.S. K9 program by calling us

Meet the dogs

at 712-239-5042 or sending an email