In a busy corner of the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s vaccination clinic at the Gordie Howe Event Centre, a gentle presence is doing wonders for those facing the stress of vaccination.

Since becoming a certified therapy dog ​​in 2019, Dibs has brought comfort and joy to countless people across the province.

As people come and go, the spaniel mix affectionately described by his owner Taunia Arthur as a “certified good boy” is there to greet them with a wagging tail and gentle muzzle.

“His job is to bring joy and happiness to everyone he meets,” Arthur explained, looking at Dibs as he leaned towards a young girl named Brynn.

Brynn, just six years old, approached the clinic hesitantly, but with Dibs by her side, her anxiety dissipated.

“Dibs made me so happy!” » she exclaimed, a smile spreading across her face.

Arthur is a veterinary technician by training and said her job is quite flexible, allowing her time to dedicate to her and Dibs’ time.

She recalled how Dibs came into her life as a foster dog after an accident left him with two broken back legs when he was six months old. Since then, Dibs has not only recovered, but he has also thrived as a therapy dog.

He regularly visits children at places like the Ronald McDonald House and Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, and even provides comfort to adults following trauma, including mass stabbing attack on James Smith Cree Nation in 2022.

St. John Ambulance therapy dogs have been visiting vaccination clinics in Saskatoon to provide comfort to patients and staff since 2021.

To become a therapy dog ​​with St. John Ambulance in Saskatchewan, a dog must pass a behavioral evaluation which checks its ability to handle different situations and its overall temperament. Their master must also complete training before they can be certified together as a therapy team.

At the vaccination clinic, Dibs provides a crucial diversion, easing the tension that often accompanies vaccinations.

“The biggest thing we’ve found is that dogs are a big distraction,” Arthur said. “I’ve had kids come up and give Dibs a big hug while they go to get their syringe.”

In a vaccination clinic, therapy dogs can help relieve patient anxiety and fear associated with vaccinations, providing comfort and emotional support during a stressful experience. Their calming presence encourages positive interactions, making the process more enjoyable for children and adults alike.

Colette Keyko, Brynn’s mother, said she couldn’t agree more.

“It was great. It made all the difference. It made things a lot easier for Brynn,” she said, her gratitude evident as she watched her daughter smile with Dibs.

As Dibs moves from person to person, his impact is clear.

“We always have smiles,” Arthur said. “We don’t need to talk about politics or the weather. We can talk about the dog, which is so much more exciting.

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Dibs’ mission is simple, but powerful.

“If Dibs makes you smile, he gets a gold star,” Arthur laughs. “He gets an A+ for the day!” »

Although the vaccination clinic at the Gordie Howe Events Center is over for the season, you can stay up to date with Dibs’ upcoming visits. by following him on Instagram.