Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is a service dog and how do they benefit persons living with a disability? 
    According to the U.S. Federal Register, service dogs are defined as “any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.” While service dogs can help anyone from wounded soldiers to someone who sustained a traumatic brain injury in a car accident, the positive effects can be seen in other areas as well. For many, the presence of animals can brighten their day and lift their spirits, help them maintain a positive attitude and encourage communication. For some, it helps motivate them in their therapy or treatment, reminding them of their own pets waiting for them at home. 
  2. What kinds of tasks is a service dog able to perform? 
    Based on their innate obedience, intelligence, intuition and empathy, service dogs have also proven invaluable in helping individuals with a range of other needs, such as those who suffer from hearing impairments, diabetes/blood sugar volatility, seizures and mobility/balance issues, or individuals struggling with emotional conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
  3. Is my loved one required to work with Lolo?
    Your loved ones’ participation is completely voluntary and you will be given the opportunity to indicate whether you would like them to be involved in therapy sessions with Lolo. Please contact our therapy or social work departments should you have questions.
  4. How is Lolo different than On With Life’s pet therapy program? 
    There are three types of Therapy Dogs: “facility therapy dogs,”  “therapeutic visitation dogs,” and “animal assisted therapy dogs.” On With Life’s “facility dog” will assist team members in meeting goals important to a person’s recovery.