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Wolfsburg’s ‘Dream Teams on Six Paws’ Seek Therapy Dogs and Owners

Could your dog be a lifeline for someone in need? A new initiative pairs volunteers with their pets to spread warmth in hospitals and nursing homes.

The image shows a dog laying on the ground next to a chair, surrounded by a few people sitting on...
The image shows a dog laying on the ground next to a chair, surrounded by a few people sitting on the chairs. The dog appears to be in a state of distress, likely due to the fact that it is a stray dog, and the people in the image are likely trying to stop it.

Wolfsburg’s ‘Dream Teams on Six Paws’ Seek Therapy Dogs and Owners

The German Red Cross (DRK) in Wolfsburg is searching for dog owners and their pets to join a special visiting and therapy programme. Dubbed 'dream teams on six paws,' the initiative pairs volunteers with their dogs to bring comfort to isolated or unwell individuals. The project focuses on places where words alone may not be enough to provide solace.

Monika Schulze, founder of the DRK’s visiting and therapy dog unit, is leading the effort. The organisation is looking for people who enjoy interacting with others and dogs with a calm, friendly nature that puts people at ease. Not every affectionate pet is automatically suited for the role, though. Both the handler and the animal must complete thorough training before joining the team.

The training programme covers basic obedience, composure, and stress resilience. It also strengthens the bond between dog and owner. These skills are essential for visits to nursing homes, schools, and hospitals, where the teams will work. An information session for interested owners will take place on Wednesday, January 28, at 6:00 PM. The meeting will be held at Walter-Flex-Weg 12, but dogs should not attend this initial event. Instead, the evening will focus on logistical questions, with suitability assessments for the animals arranged later.

The visiting dog unit hopes to expand its work across Wolfsburg’s care facilities and educational settings. Successful applicants will form part of a team dedicated to offering companionship where it is most needed. The programme relies on committed human-canine pairs to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

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