Two specially-trained dogs have become the first assistance dogs in the UK to help people with dementia. Kaspa and Oscar are part of a project to investigate how a dog may bring benefits to people with early-stage dementia.
The project, which was generated by students at Glasgow School of Art’s (GSA) Product Design department, then developed by a partnership between Alzheimer Scotland, Dogs for the Disabled and Guide Dogs Scotland commenced in 2012. Both dogs have been highly trained to help offer practical assistance and reduce social isolation and anxiety levels, some of the major problems experienced by couples where one partner has dementia.
For more information on Dementia Dogs click here: http://dementiadog.org