The worst therapy dog in the world
Meet Ziggy, the lovable yet chaotic dachshund who’s terrible at therapy but excels at sparking laughter, conversation, and being a warm companion.
Ziggy is the worst therapy dog in the world.
Have you ever encountered therapy animals—dogs, cats, or even horses—that assist people emotionally and physically? They are truly amazing. These animals are used in various settings, including old age homes, children's homes, hospitals, and play therapy sessions.
“A therapy dog can assist a play therapist by creating an environment where young clients feel comfortable and unconditionally accepted. The dog can also act as an ice-breaker by promoting conversation and communication between the therapist and clients, creating a climate of trust and safety. A dog’s playful nature facilitates playfulness in therapy.”
Dr. Sune Scholtz (Educational Psychologist)
Well, Ziggy is the opposite of the above. He is self-centered, needy, entitled, and clueless about empathy.
Some of you or your children may have met Ziggy at our house. Often by mistake, as he’s supposed to be indoors during play therapy sessions. But every now and then, he escapes and joins us. His one redeeming feature? He’s quite cute. And most people don’t mind giving him some attention. For those who do, I promptly send him back where he belongs.
He has no concept of body boundaries.
Despite his antics, Ziggy does have a few redeeming qualities during play therapy. He sparks conversation, and children who love dogs often enjoy having him around, even asking for him. Perhaps his neediness makes people feel special and wanted? And once he settles down on a cushion and falls asleep, he keeps us company—until something active happens, and he’s ready to join the fun!
Of course, in his defense, he hasn’t been trained as a therapy dog. Ziggy only knows how to be a Sausage Dog, and he excels at that.
We love our pets, and Ziggy—though slightly mad—is special to us. Even if he is the worst therapy dog in the world!
