The Dogtors

In the bustling cityscape of Singapore, a unique ensemble is making rounds—not just in hospitals, but wherever they are needed. Meet The Dogtors, Singapore's pioneering non-profit organisation specialising in animal-assisted interactions and interventions (AAI). With a mission to empower both ends of the leash, The Dogtors are redefining therapeutic support across healthcare and social-service settings nationwide.

Addressing a Critical Gap

The story of The Dogtors began with a vision to address a growing demand for AAI in Singapore. They recognised a critical gap: the absence of standardised guidelines and training for handlers and animals. Without proper structures in place, risks to public health, safety, animal welfare, and concerns about the credibility of the field grew. The Dogtors created a holistic ecosystem—one that weaves together education, training, services, programmes, research, and professional guidelines. Their collaborative, multidisciplinary approach ensures that their programmes are grounded in the highest standards of evidence-based practices. The Dogtors strive to ensure that every interaction prioritises the wellbeing of both animals and humans; treating animals as valued partners rather than tools.

Tailored Programmes for All

The Dogtors' programmes are as diverse as the individuals they serve. For seniors in nursing homes, these visits bring companionship and mental stimulation, brightening days and easing feelings of isolation. Children and adults with special needs find a safe space to build confidence, improve emotional well-being, and experience moments of pure joy. For Singapore’s stressed-out workforce—whether healthcare professionals or corporate employees—initiatives like “Dogtors on Call” and “Wooffice Wellness” are tailored to relieve stress, boost morale, and combat burnout. Each session is thoughtfully designed to create genuine connections, delivering positive outcomes for both participants and the visiting dog teams.

Clarifying the Role of Visiting Dogs

Central to The Dogtors’ philosophy is their insistence on proper terminology. Their dogs are referred to as “visiting dogs” rather than “therapy dogs,” aligning with international standards and definitions. Visiting dogs

provide comfort and companionship during pre-arranged visits to various facilities. Unlike therapy dogs, they are not tasked with performing specific therapeutic interventions or working under the supervision of healthcare professionals as part of a medical treatment plan. Therapy dogs, on the other hand, undergo rigorous training to assist individuals with diagnosed conditions, often playing an integral role in ongoing treatment. By distinguishing these roles, The Dogtors uphold clarity and maintain the highest ethical standards in their practice.

Ensuring Quality Through Accreditation

The foundation of The Dogtors’ impact lies in their rigorous accreditation process for both dogs and handlers. This journey begins with a meticulous screening to assess the temperament, health, and suitability of the dog. From there, both the dog and handler embark on a comprehensive mentorship programme. Handlers are trained in animal welfare, canine body language, and best practices for engaging with diverse groups, including seniors, children, and individuals with special needs. Teams need to attend a stipulated number of real-world visits to prove their skills in AAI before finally becoming accredited. Regular re-evaluations and ongoing training help ensure that the wellbeing of both dogs and humans involved is always prioritised, while maintaining the highest standards in every visit.

A Volunteer’s Journey: Tim's Story

One inspiring story from The Dogtors is that of Tim (not his real name), a youth who joined the organisation through a programme for youth at risk. Once a participant, Tim is now a volunteer who helps out at other programmes run by The Dogtors. Reflecting on his journey, Tim shares, "The Dogtors has not only provided me with an outlet where I can share love and care with others but has also given me room to grow and develop as a person. I am grateful for that. 

I also love volunteering with The Dogtors because of the community there. The staff are all like really good friends, and working with them is a very pleasant experience. I have volunteered with many organisations, and The Dogtors is by far the most meaningful one. I enjoy the smiles and laughter the participants have when they interact with the dogs and the meaningful conversations I have with them. Many times when I volunteered, we worked with seniors. Engaging with them and seeing the joy they experienced was truly a blessing. Volunteering with The Dogtors has not only brought much meaning and happiness to my life, reducing stress and depression levels, but also given me the opportunity to give back to the community in impactful ways."

Tim also recalls his participation in the "Ruffing it Out" workshop, where he learned to identify and acknowledge his feelings and emotions through activities involving the dogs. "As a participant, I reflected on myself and my actions. As a volunteer, my life has gained more meaning because I can give back to society and help others. Even if the seniors or youth do not remember, the 1-2 hours they spent with The Dogtors and the joy they experienced cannot be taken away."

Creating Lasting Impact

The Dogtors are trailblazers in harnessing the therapeutic potential of the human-animal bond. Amid the challenges of modern life, The Dogtors bring relief through the simple yet profound bond between a friendly dog and a caring human. Their visits brighten lives, foster connection, and leave lasting impressions of joy and kindness. Their work extends beyond bringing comfort to individuals; it contributes to building healthier, more connected communities.

How You Can Help

Support The Dogtors' mission today—donate to sustain their efforts or join as a handler with your dog to make a difference. Find them on instagram and facebook (@thedogtors.sg), or learn more on their website (https://thedogtors.sg)!