Jessie the Therapy Dog
When a patient comes to the Free Dental Clinic and seems terrified to sit in a dental chair, our therapy dog may come to the rescue. Jessie is a 13-year-old golden retriever owned and trained by Deanna Klingel of Sapphire Valley.
The first procedure at the Clinic is to take the patient’s blood pressure. Anxiety is often reflected in high readings. When available, these patients are allowed to play with Jessie, which promotes lower blood pressure readings and a more relaxed patient.
Interacting with Jessie is a wonderful way for children and adults alike to reduce the tension often experienced when visiting a dentist. The Clinic's Executive Director has also been known to call Deanna and ask for Jessie when the stress of dental emergencies is affecting the Clinic staff.
Jessie the therapy dog with her owner, Deanna Klingel,
and dental assistant Melodie Hall.
Three young clinic patients get to know and love Jessie as Deanna looks on.