A therapy dog’s journey from pup to professional

By Caleb Francis

Oct 4, 2023

Poodle with a purpose: Psychologist Michelle Eldridge with her therapy dog, Marlon. Photo by Megan Fisher

September marked Therapy Dog Awareness Month, shedding light (not fur) on the extraordinary animals that assist in the healing processes of many.

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One such remarkable therapy dog is Marlon, a four-year-old standard poodle whose gentle nature and intuitive interactions make him an indispensable part of the therapy sessions conducted by psychologist Michelle Eldridge.

Michelle’s journey with therapy dogs began right from the puppy stage.

“As a breeder, I select the pups and work with them from the start, bringing them into the hospital and exposing them to different sounds, sights and experiences that will test them for future work as a therapy dog,” Michelle said.

Magnificent: Marlon sitting proudly while wearing his therapy dog jacket. Photo by Megan Fisher

The training and exposure from an early age prepare dogs such as Marlon for their vital role.

“Once they reach 12 months of age, they get accredited through a trained dog therapy trainer, who then provides them with the jacket so that they can be allowed to enter hospitals, clinics and areas,” Michelle said.

This accreditation is not just a one-time process.

It requires continual training and evaluation, ensuring that Marlon and his furry colleagues are well prepared to assist in various therapeutic settings.

Paw-sitive impact: Accredited therapy dog Marlon often engages with patients during therapy sessions led by psychologist Michelle Eldridge. Photo by Megan Fisher

As well as Marlon, Michelle’s other therapy dogs and their interactions go beyond just being a calm presence.

“Not only do they just visit patients in the hospital, but they also work with patients in the clinic as a one-on-one therapy session,” Michelle said.

“With the children especially, they work really well. It helps them (the children) relax, and their anxiety is not as great.”

She also said Marlon formed an incredible bond with patients, often altering the atmosphere in the room, making it more conducive for therapy.

“The ambience and the atmosphere in the room change when there’s a dog, especially something that stands out as a big poodle,” Michelle said.

“It’s very tactile, and that helps people feel comfortable patting the dog as well as talking to the dog.”

Best friends: Psychologist Michelle Eldridge with her therapy dog, Marlon. Photo by Megan Fisher

Marlon’s ability to gauge the emotional state of individuals, offering his comforting presence, showcases the invaluable support therapy dogs can provide.

Michelle said her work had been enriched by the presence of therapy dogs for nearly a decade.

“At the Shepparton Private Hospital, we’ve had therapy dogs for probably five years,” Michelle said.

“It’s a big commitment; they do this work for free and add a lot of benefits to what I do.”

Marlon doesn’t just excel in therapy sessions; he has also shone in dog shows, winning accolades such as the Best of Breed at the Melbourne Royal Show.

His excellence could be traced back to his roots, as Marlon came from a breeder in Melbourne, with his lineage hailing from France.

Through the eyes of Michelle, we witness not just a professional relationship but a companionship beyond the therapy room.

“As well as my colleague, he is a great friend to me,” she said.