By Dr. Jolee Roberts, DDS
When people think about dentistry, they usually imagine tools, bright lights, and maybe the sound of a drill—not a warm, furry companion wagging its tail or purring by your side. But as someone who shares life with a beloved rescue dog, I’ve come to see how animals—especially those who have overcome their own hardships—can teach us some of the most valuable lessons about compassion, patience, and care.
In fact, the bond between humans and animals has long been recognized as powerful and healing. Many healthcare settings are now exploring pet therapy as a way to reduce anxiety, ease pain, and bring comfort to patients. While my dental office doesn’t currently offer pet therapy sessions, I often think about the principles animals teach us—and how we can bring that same gentle, empathetic spirit into our work with patients.
Rescue Pets and Second Chances
I adopted my rescue dog a few years ago, and from the moment we locked eyes, I knew we’d be learning from each other. Like many rescue animals, he came from a difficult background—nervous, unsure of people, and slow to trust. It took time, consistency, and a lot of love to help him feel safe and confident.
That journey mirrored so much of what I see in my dental chair every day. Many patients come in with fear, anxiety, or even past trauma related to dental care. Just like my dog, they need to know they’re in a safe space. They need to be met with patience, kindness, and a gentle touch.
Rescue animals remind us that healing isn’t always fast. It takes time. But when we give someone—whether a pet or a patient—the chance to feel seen, heard, and valued, the transformation is incredible.
The Science Behind Pet Therapy
Pet therapy, or animal-assisted therapy, has been used in hospitals, nursing homes, and even some dental offices to help patients relax and feel more at ease. Studies have shown that interacting with animals can reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. For anxious patients, especially children or those with special needs, a therapy animal can be a calming presence.
In my experience, even just talking about pets during appointments helps people feel more comfortable. Asking a patient about their dog or cat often sparks a smile and shifts the energy in the room. It’s a simple way to connect on a human level—beyond charts and X-rays.
Some progressive dental practices have even started incorporating therapy dogs into their offices. These specially trained animals sit with patients during cleanings or procedures, offering comfort and emotional support. It’s a beautiful example of how care can go beyond clinical tasks and truly touch the heart.
What Animals Teach Us About Care
You don’t have to run a therapy program to bring the spirit of animal compassion into patient care. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned from my rescue dog that I apply every day in my practice:
1. Be Present
Animals live in the moment. They’re not distracted by to-do lists or phones—they’re focused on the here and now. When I’m with a patient, I aim to give them that same undivided attention. Being fully present helps patients feel valued and respected.
2. Offer Unconditional Acceptance
My dog doesn’t care what I look like, how successful I am, or what kind of day I’ve had—he’s just happy I’m there. In the dental office, I try to meet every patient with that same nonjudgmental attitude. Whether someone hasn’t seen a dentist in years or feels ashamed of their oral health, I want them to know they’re welcome and supported.
3. Be Patient and Consistent
Training a rescue dog takes time, and progress doesn’t happen overnight. The same goes for helping nervous patients. Sometimes, just getting through the door is a big win. I’ve learned to celebrate small victories, be consistent in my approach, and never rush someone’s comfort level.
Creating a Calming Environment
While not every dental office has a therapy dog, we can still make our spaces more soothing and welcoming. In my practice, we focus on creating a calming environment with soft lighting, relaxing music, and comforting scents. We offer warm blankets, noise-canceling headphones, and most importantly, a team that leads with empathy.
These small touches, inspired by the comfort animals naturally bring, help turn an anxious appointment into a more positive experience.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, dentistry is about more than just teeth—it’s about people. It’s about meeting others where they are, offering kindness without conditions, and remembering that everyone carries their own fears and hopes.
My rescue dog has taught me that compassion can change everything. In healthcare, just like in the world of animal rescue, we have the chance to offer healing—not just through procedures, but through presence, patience, and care.
Whether it’s through a gentle word, a listening ear, or yes, maybe even a wagging tail, we all have the power to bring comfort and connection into our work.
And sometimes, the best lessons in compassion come from the ones who can’t speak—but who teach us so much just by being there.