Dr. Paul Weiss's pediatric dental office in Williamville, NY, has a very special helper on their team. Like many other dental office assistants, Weiss’s new partner is friendly, caring and tries her hardest to make all patients feel comfortable and safe. However, she does differ in some respects: her idea of a perfect day involves sticking her head out of a car window, she has a taste for kibble and frequently has spats with cats. Yep, the newest addition to Weiss’s practice is a dog.
Brooke, a four-year-old golden retriever is using her talents as a certified therapy dog to show children that visiting the dentist doesn’t have to be scary. Not your average canine, Brooke has mastered basic obedience, is comfortable around medical appliances and stays cool under pressure (or petting). If you’re thinking, “wait a second…how is Dr. Weiss’s office not covered in dog hair? Is that even sanitary?” Fret not, Brooke is bathed before her work days and the office is thoroughly cleaned and vacuumed after she leaves.
Fearful patients are a demographic that all dentists will encounter at one time or another, especially if they treat pediatric patients. Many children are afraid of the dentist; and if not treated correctly, these children turn into adults who are afraid of the dentist. Dr. Weiss knows how important it is to stop the cycle of fear and has made it his mission "to really make kids comfortable coming to the dentist, to keep them coming back. We want to make sure their dental experience is positive, and Brooke is one more means to accomplish that."
Good dog.
