Winkle, Melissa - Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions Sneak Peek of Dogwood Doga (2020)

Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions: Sneak Peek of Dogwood Doga, 3rd Edition
Professional Applications of Animal Assisted

Interventions: Sneak Peek
of Dogwood Doga, Third Edition
Edited by
Melissa Y. Winkle, OTR/L, FAOTA, CPDT-KA
and
Macy Porter, MOTR/L, RYT
Disclaimer
The authors recommend that you consult with your healthcare provider prior to beginning this
activity set. There is a risk of injury with any exercise program. The content was designed for
healthcare and human service providers, and those with yoga experience. The authors of this
material are not liable for any negative outcomes caused by use or misuse of the information and
activities in this activity set. It is recommended that the dog’s interest, behavior, and skills be
professionally evaluated prior to participating. For best results, evaluations should take place
in the environment, with the activities and the population with which they will be working.
Providers should pursue continuing education to fulfill professional responsibilities, standards
of practice and competency in this practice area. You are willingly participating in activities from
this book and assume all risks.
Copyright © 2020, 2013, 2011 by Melissa Y. Winkle
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
(written, printed, copied, shared electronically, recorded, or any other means) without the prior
written authorization of the publisher, except in brief quotations within reviews and other non-
commercial uses allowed by copyright law. For permission requests, contact the author, with a
subject line “Dogwood Doga Permission Request”, with the contact information below.
Dogwood Therapy Services

Albuquerque, NM, USA
www.dogwoodtherapy.com
To “Jesse,”
whose legacy is
Dogwood Therapy Services
CONTENTS
People Behind the Book 1
Acknowledgements 2
Words to Know 3
What’s the Point? 5
Intervention Goals 6
Screening Clients for AAI Participation 7
Screening Clients for Doga Participation 7
Ethics 8
Is Your Dog Right for the Job? 9
Precautions 10
Creating the Right Environment for Doga 10
Population Specific Factors 11
Suggested Equipment and Props 11
The Breath 11
Breathing and Centering Activity 11
Dog Daze Pose 12
Bow Wow Pose 14
Reach-riever Pose 16
Twist and Bark Pose 18
Pups in the Cradle Pose 20
Sneaky Treat Pose 22
Pointer Pose 24
Make Like a Tree Pose 26
Further Reading 28
The full version of this book has expanded content in all reading sections and has 30 poses,
each with a traditional pose and 2 variation poses each.
People Behind the Book
Melissa Y. Winkle OTR/L, FAOTA, CPDT-KA is an Occupational Therapist

& Certified Professional Dog Trainer. She is President of Dogwood
Therapy Services and Animal Assisted Intervention International. Melissa
is adjunct faculty and clinical instructor at several universities and
organizations, internationally, including curriculum development and
adjunct faculty at Oakland University (MI), Center for Human Animal
Interventions. She is a practitioner, a researcher, an author, a
consultant, and speaks internationally about disability, integrated &
community based program development, animal assisted
interventions, and service dogs. She has published a series of books
about AAT, available on Amazon.
Macy Porter, MOTR/L, RYT is a Registered Yoga Teacher and received her Master of Occupational
Therapy from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in
Memphis. Macy went on to complete a full year program and internship
at Dogwood Therapy Services for animal-assisted occupational Therapy,
and is now a full-time staff therapist at Dogwood, practicing her special
interests of animal assisted therapy, accessible yoga and humane based
dog training. She is currently participating in Dogwood’s apprenticeship
for service dog training. Macy has fulfilled authorship and editor roles for
several publications.
Phoebe Yam, OTD, OTR/L is an occupational therapist from Arcadia,

California who graduated from the University of Southern California. Upon
completion of her education, she began a year-long internship at
Dogwood Therapy Services to pursue competency in animal-assisted
occupational therapy and training dogs for animal assisted therapy. She
enjoys working with people of all abilities and ages. Phoebe presents at
local, state and national conferences about topics including the human-
animal bond, animal advocacy, animal assisted interventions, standards
of practice and competencies to strengthen skills of healthcare and
human service providers, and dog trainers.
Acknowledgements
Photographers:
Hayley Williams, Nicole Herrera, Melissa Winkle, and in memory of Zak T, our original photographer.
It takes a community to build an emerging practice area in a professional healthcare field.

Dogwood would not be where it is without the inspiration, creativity, and support of these
phenomenal beings. They are the kind of people who come together to teach the masses and share
knowledge for the greater good. If you have the pleasure of meeting them someday, shake their
hand and tell them “nice job.”
Heather Park Jill Felice and Laura Collins

Marianna McFadden Assistance Dogs of the West Carol Lachenmeyer
Tim Neugebauer Dani Miller Allie Webber
Kim Warner Sherry Shellenberger Ronja S.
Charlene Mary Sue Williams Michelle McMaster
Carla Cay Williams Terry Crowe Melissa Feuerbach
Shout Out to Ron Winkle and Sam H. for their assistance with meeting the requests of the very
demanding human and canine models throughout the creation of this edition.
Dog Models, Teachers and Participants:

Jesse, Melvin, Gertrude, Widget, Woody, Clementine, Lucy, Dottie, Tater, Griz, Lola, Summer, and all
of the other dogs in training that have come into my home and life to teach me of all the possibilities
for animal assisted interventions, services dogs, and general dog training. You are my companions,
my teachers, my colleagues, and my inspiration. Thank you for all that you give. I can always count
on you (except during live demos and photo shoots, when you take the opportunity to exercise your
freedom of choice to retrieve props, steal things that do not belong to you, and take breaks at the
most inconvenient times possible).
Words to Know
The following is a glossary of terms adapted from Animal
Assisted Intervention International (2020), and International
Association for Human-Animal Interaction Organizations
White Paper (2018). While the terms include ‘animal,’ this
book only refers to dogs.
Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI): AAI is an interdisciplinary

term that describes unstructured or goal-oriented activities
that intentionally incorporate animals into human services,
healthcare, education and similar fields. AAIs may be
individual or group in nature, and are appropriate for a variety of ages and abilities. AAI is an
umbrella term that encompasses the AAII membership fields including Animal-Assisted Activities
(AAA), Animal Assisted Education (AAE), Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT), Animal Assisted Special
Programs (AASP) and Animal Assisted Placement Programs (AAPP). AASP and AAPP represent
member categories that reflect the wide ranging nature of AAI, and that AAI service providers who
do not fit into AAA, AAE or AAT have indicated the need for. AAIs promote well-being and benefits
for humans and provide a positive experience for the animals without force, coercion, or
exploitation. AAIs may directly or indirectly involve the animal.
Animal Assisted Activities (AAA): AAA incorporates specially selected and trained animals into
impromptu or planned activities and interactions that may be offered by volunteer,
paraprofessional, or professional human-animal teams. AAA may be unstructured or goal-oriented
in areas such as motivational, recreational, social, and general well-being. AAA teams have
participated in a minimum of introductory preparation and training for the populations they visit and
the dog they are handling. With additional preparation and training, AAA teams can work directly
with a licensed, degreed, or equivalent healthcare, human service, or educational professional in
AAE, AAT and AASP. AAAs promote mutual well-being and benefits for the humans and animals
involved. AAIs may directly or indirectly involve the animal.
Animal Assisted Education (AAE): AAE incorporates specially selected and trained animals into goal-
directed, educationally relevant teaching plans that are designed to promote development of
general or special education skills in areas such as cognition, social functioning, personal growth,
responsible pet carers, etc. AAE is developed, directed and/or delivered by a person who is licensed,
degreed, or equivalent education professional specialized expertise in teaching/education. The
process is evaluated and documented. AAE providers who handle their own dogs have additional
intermediate to advanced training in dog advocacy, handling, communication, behavior,
husbandry, health, welfare, and well-being in both living and working situations. Alternatively,
teaching/education providers may choose to work in conjunction with an AAA team, a professional
dog handler or an AASP who have additional training for the scope of AAE. AAE may be provided
in a variety of settings, with a variety of ages, and may be individual or group in nature. AAE promotes
mutual well-being and benefits for the humans and animals involved. AAEs may directly or indirectly
involve the animal.
Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT): AAT incorporates specially selected and trained animals into goal-
directed therapeutic/intervention plans that are designed to promote improvement in physical,
cognitive, psychosocial, behavioral, and/or emotional functioning. AAT is developed, directed
and/or delivered by a professional who is educated, licensed, degreed, or equivalent in
healthcare/human service and has specialized expertise within the scope of practice of his/her
profession; the process is evaluated and documented. AAT providers have additional intermediate
to advanced continuing education for AAT theory and practice. AAT providers who handle their
own animals have additional intermediate to advanced training in dog advocacy, handling,
communication, behavior, husbandry, health, welfare, and well-
being in both living and working situations. Alternatively, healthcare
and human service providers may choose to work in conjunction with
an AAA team, a professional dog handler or an AASP who have
additional training for the scope of AAT. AAT may be provided in a
variety of settings, with a variety of ages, and may be individual or
group in nature. AAT promotes mutual well-being and benefits for the
humans and animals involved. AAT may directly or indirectly involve
the animal.
Animal Assisted Placement Program (AAPP): An AAPP involves a

professional program or individual who provides specially selected and/or trained animals to
professionals in AAA, AAE, AAT or AASP. AAPPs instruct animal recipients/handlers about animal
advocacy, handling, training, communication, behavior, husbandry, health, welfare, and well-being
in both living and working situations. Some examples of AAPPs are Assistance Dogs International
(ADI) dog training organizations or similar that raise, train, and place “facility dogs” or train dogs for
placement with healthcare, human service, education, crisis response, or clinics. AAPPs also include
individuals or organizations that offer owner self-training classes for healthcare, education, or human
service providers, etc. AAPP promotes positive, safe relationships between the handler and the
animal.
Animal Assisted Special Program (AASP): AASPs offer goal-oriented programs that incorporate
specially selected and trained animals to work in professional fields outside of animal assisted
education and therapy or in conjunction with these licensed professionals. AASP personnel may or
may not have a license, degree, or equivalent, but are delivering a professional level service or
program. Examples of these programs include prison dog training classes that teach inmates life/job
skills; community programs for people with disabilities, job training, etc.; formal crisis intervention
department work (e.g. victim advocates); at-risk populations; camps/vocational programs/after
school classes for people with disabilities to develop specific skills; a person who teaches veterans
with PTSD how to train animals as part other their life skills goals; dogs who work with paramedics/fire
stations and comfort victims; or ministry dogs ( dogs who work with priests). AASPs promote well-being
and benefits for humans and provide a positive experience for the animals without force, coercion
or exploitation. AASPs may directly or indirectly involve the animal.
What’s the Point?

The first several pages in each of the Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions contain
the same basic content for entry-level competencies for this work. This book offers a sneak peak of the
full version of Dogwood Doga poses that have been evaluated and utilized by a variety of disciplines
around the world. This book is only one step in the process of becoming skilled in AAIs. Healthcare and
human service providers must achieve competency in their discipline, consider ethics from the
professions’ codes of conduct, and understand dog behavior and training.
There is both an art and a science to the implementation of AAIs.

Historically, the mere presence of dogs improved the willingness of people
to become open to the practitioner, frequently a mental health
professional. Today, many disciplines in healthcare and human service work
are recognizing the value of AAIs (AAA, AAE, AAT, AASP). Each discipline
has a different scope of practice and works towards specific goals.
Accordingly, the dog’s ability and interests must match that of the job
description and the practitioner handler. Today’s practitioners and handlers
are charged with having skills and knowledge in the realms of both humans
and animals, as these shape the success of the interaction and creates the
balance that makes AAIs effective.
This book is written from a function-based occupational therapy perspective. Here, occupation refers to
functional activities that are building blocks in an individual’s structure that we call life. Whether a person
has a goal to tie shoes, to improve thinking skills, or to regain balance, carefully planned AAIs can improve
motivation and participation in developing the skills that allow for independence. This book was designed
to offer novel activities, to modify them for many populations, and to remind the reader of the dog’s
perspective to ensure the process is fun for everyone. The layout of the activities in this book is meant to
cater to the needs of the experienced practitioners, handlers, and dogs. Some activities may appear
similar, but with some minor changes, the activity outcomes are much different. Other activities simply list
modifications that can make participation easier or more difficult depending upon the skills of the
participant, handler, client or dog.
The intervention activities cater to many ages and abilities. Each activity involves many performance skills.
We chose to identify the therapeutic outcomes of only a few skills that each activity caters to. We also list
precautions to consider as a means to prevent potential injury. There are additional ideas listed in
variations to make each pose accessible for participants of varying skills and abilities. If we did it right, you
will be able to create your own activities using this format. Otherwise, improvise!
The dog’s perspective is considered throughout this book. Please note that the dog perspective,
precautions to consider when working with the dog, and variations to make participation more enjoyable
are written from the dog’s point of view. This is somewhat anthropomorphic, but many experts in dog
behavior and communication agree that dogs have thoughts, reactions, communication, and emotion,
if we just to learn to listen and observe. A good handler takes preventative measures and considers the
dog’s abilities and preferences for engagement and ensures all activities are with within its skill level. There
is a lot to know about how a dog perceives the world. Be an advocate for your dog!
Intervention Goals
Activities involving animals provide opportunities to incorporate many recreational, therapeutic, or
educational goals. Healthcare, human service, and educational professionals begin by completing
discipline-specific evaluations with the individuals (clients, patients, and students) under their care.
They establish goals and develop an intervention plan that may include a dog. This book includes
activities that cater to the following therapeutic outcomes:
Sensory Processing
• Sensory integration
• Body awareness
• Proprioceptive and vestibular input
• Auditory processing
• Perceptual processing skills: kinesthesis (positioning the body and timing)
Neuromusculoskeletal Functioning
• Joint range of motion
• Muscle tone and strength
• Weight bearing through upper and lower extremities
• Endurance
• Postural control and alignment
• Primitive reflex integration
• Respiratory function and diaphragm strength
Motor Skills
• Motor planning
• Motor timing and accuracy
• Dynamic and static balance
• Equilibrium and righting reactions
• Weight shifting
• Bilateral integration and crossing the midline
Cognition
• Spatial operations
• Attention, memory, and sequencing
Psychosocial Skills
• Leisure exploration and participation
• Emotional regulation
• Social interaction
• Expressive and receptive communication
Keep these in mind before, during, and after each doga

session! Consider biomechanical and activity analysis as
you are planning your intervention.
Screening Clients for AAI Participation

A provider’s personal preferences for working with animals must remain separate from determining
whether a client is appropriate for AAT. While many clients may like dogs, each potential participant
must be objectively screened to determine whether working with animals will motivate or facilitate
existing goal progress. Not all clients are appropriate for participation in AAT. The following
considerations will guide the participant screening process for inclusion of AAIs. See the full text
version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Screening Clients for Doga Participation

Doga provides an opportunity to incorporate many recreational, therapeutic, or educational goals
into one activity. As noted above, healthcare, human service, and educational professionals begin
by completing discipline-specific evaluations with the participants (clients, patients, and students)
under their care. When utilizing Doga to meet participant goals, an additional screening should be
completed to ensure that the participant is able to achieve and maintain each pose prior to
engaging in this activity with a dog. Baseline performance should be evaluated with a stuffed animal
or large rolled blanket to ensure the client is able to safely complete all poses that will be performed.
In addition to AAI screening considerations listed above, the following considerations will guide the
participant screening process for participation in Doga. See the full text version of Dogwood Doga
for content.
The screening is designed to assist providers in determining a variety of factors regarding how to
structure the Doga session, such as choosing poses, creating sequences, and identifying where to
position the dog so they are not in harm’s way. See the full text version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Ethics
This book is just one resource on the journey to gaining education and
competency for AAIs. Most professional disciplines have a code of
ethics, core values, or a code of practice, which ensures that
fundamental standards of practice and conduct are in place, and
that the practitioner demonstrates professionalism and accountability.
Some of these elements include 1) beneficence, safety of clients; 2)
non-maleficence, avoid placing clients in harm’s way; 3) altruism, the
concern for the welfare of others; 4) truth, providing accurate
information about treatments within one’s scope, education, and
competency. should apply to the clients and the dogs who work with
us. When including dogs in any treatment session, it is critical to consider
the practitioner’s education and experience in the areas of yoga and
occupational therapy (or other discipline) (including working under the
supervision of a mentor who has experience and knowledge in AAIs). It
is also important to consider dog handling, training, communication,
and behavior. From a professional liability perspective, practitioners
must maintain service delivery within professional standards and their
own capacity, and acknowledge the risks involved with even the best trained dog. Seek out
continuing education for areas in which you may benefit from gaining more knowledge and skills.
Our canine co-therapists must also be given consideration for their preferences, skills, and level of
training. They must be willing participants, truly enjoy the work,
and be given the opportunity to accept or decline being in
sessions. Preparation and training should be based on humane
and positive reinforcement practices rather than aversive or
punishment techniques as these impact interactions. Training
goals for dogs may include relationship development, trust in
the handler/practitioner, and strong sociability. Basic
obedience may include specific positions, behaviors,
interactions, and training with routine equipment that is in the
environment. Consider the session complexities from the dog’s
perspective. Consider what the dog hears, sees, smells, feels, and tastes. Look at the environment
carefully, determine what could possibly go wrong, and prevent it! Prevention is much easier than
recovering or retraining. Consider the number of hours that a dog works well and where he/she will
have time to rest away from distractions so he/she may take time to just be a dog. Over time, a
dog’s activity level and population preferences can change, and each must be re-evaluated
frequently to ensure that the dog is still a good fit for the job demands. The dog’s health and behavior
should be closely monitored for changes. A professional dog trainer/behavior specialist and a
veterinarian should be consulted regularly. Re-evaluation from an objective third party should occur
once a year or if there is a change in handlers, environment, population or activities.
The dog should be fully prepared, socialized,

trained, evaluated (by someone other than
the owner), and comfortable with his/her
required skills before interacting with the client,
activity, and equipment in the environment in
which he/she is being asked to work. Consider
whether the dog has the skills and drive to
work with a calm voice, from a distance, or at
the direct request from the client. Imagine
how much more empowered clients are if
they can make the request rather than the
therapist or an outside handler cuing them.
We do not condone the use of any aversive training or handling methods Be aware of the effect
they have on the relationship between you and the dog, in addition to the therapeutic relationship..
Consider the message that is being sent to the clients you serve if choke chains, prong collars, and
other forms of aversive or punishment techniques are present.
Reserve the specific activities, items, and dog toys only for sessions so they remain interesting to the
dog. Have separate toys available for regular play. The items for sessions are only motivating if they
are still interested in them.
Is Your Dog Right for The Job?

• Is your dog an engaged and willing participant under your
request or a client’s request?
• Is your dog in good health? Does your dog have any injuries,
past trauma, or has he/she been diagnosed with medical
conditions that would interfere with participation?
• The dog that is chosen as a canine co-therapist should be
one that enhances the intervention, not one that takes the
skilled provider away from the participant.
• See the full text version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Organizations such as Animal Assisted Intervention International

(aai-int.org) offer membership, standards, competencies, and
an accreditation process for human-animal teams and animal
support staff working in this capacity. Dogwood offers
continuing education, post-professional rotations, consulting,
and program development in these areas.
Dog stress signals or displacement behaviors include but are not limited to: Excessive licking,
panting, water drinking, inattention/withdrawal, random stretching, pacing or sweaty paws, male
dog penis protrudes out of sheath, Sniffing, yawning, or whining, flattened ears, eyes wide or
squinting. See the full text version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Precautions
Doga Specific Precautions:
• Intervention activities can be therapeutic if done correctly. If done incorrectly, they can be
harmful to the animal, client, and professional reputations.
• Obtain clearance from physicians and veterinarians before clients or dogs participate in any
intervention activities.
• Please stop if any of the movements or activities become painful, overwhelming, or cause
shortness of breath, prolonged dizziness, or nausea.
Dog Specific Precautions:

• Dogs should be pre-screened and trained by individuals with humane, positive reinforcement
methods. After all, if a dog is trained, does he/she really need a choke chain, prong/shock
collar?
• Your dog should demonstrate the skills, aptitude, and eagerness for the job, population,
environment, and activities.
• Immediately stop any activity if the dog demonstrates stress signals (Refer to “Is Your Dog
Right for the Job?”).
Creating the Right Environment for Doga

Environmental modifications may be necessary to provide sensory input that optimizes focus,
organization, and a sense of safety throughout the doga session. Temperature can also make a
difference. Most of the activities provide proprioceptive and vestibular input. Encourage participants
to doff items that may restrict movement (i.e., jewelry, glasses, watches, etc.) and wear loose
clothing. An optimal level of arousal can be accomplished through varying the following sensory
input for humans and dogs. Considerations include visual, auditory, tactile, and olfactory. See the
full text version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions: Dogwood Doga Third Edition
Population Specific Factors

There a variety of factors that will play into making doga a safe and therapeutic practice. Some
populations might need specific environmental adjustments to improve participation and
accessibility. See complete content in Below is a brief summary of a few factors among many to
consider. This is not a comprehensive list. Seek out continuing education for yoga with populations
you regularly work with. See the full text version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Suggested Equipment and Props

Props offer a way to adapt doga to fit each participant’s unique needs
and prevent potential injuries. Props raise the ground towards the body
to improve body mechanics and alignment, add or relieve pressure on
joints, offer safe support for balance, and much more. They can be used
in many different ways to adapt poses for each participant’s individual
needs. The provider should have training and prior experience with all
of these items before offering them to participants. See the full text
version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Props and equipment for the dog can assist in keeping them safe during
the session and provide visual cues to help them know where they
should be throughout the practice. See the full text version of Dogwood
Doga for content.
The Breath & Breathing Activity

The breath is an integral part of any yoga practice. With the breath we add rhythm and an inward
focus. It is through the breath that we unite with inner sensations and our canine doga partners,
promoting a social bond and feelings of mutual acceptance. Deep diaphragmatic breathing
bathes our cells in oxygen, deepening the muscle stretches and improving endurance. The positive
benefits of the poses are fully realized when a therapist provides breathing cues to participants
during doga. Breathing can also be used as a calming signal for dogs to cue them to relax and settle
into the practice. See the full text version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Centering Activity
Have a well-defined starting point to each doga session and begin in “Dog Daze,” “Hero,” or “Great
Dane.” Shift focus from the outside world to your inner world, connecting with your own breath and
the breathing patterns of your dog. Bring awareness to the way your body feels: are you sore, tense,
nervous, or tired? When you notice your focus has shifted from breath, gently remind yourself or your
participant to remain focused. During centering, a posture check or body scan may allow
participants to create proper body alignment, identify and relax tension, and maintain that
awareness as they move through the poses. See the full text version of Dogwood Doga for content.
Dog Daze Pose

Therapeutic Outcomes:
• Stretches the hip, knee, and ankle muscles
• Strengthens the trunk muscles
• Increases proprioceptive input
• Respiratory functioning may be a focus of
this pose when attention is brought to the
expansion of the ribcage
• Improves body awareness with a visual or
mental scan of the body (both the
participant’s and the dog’s)
• Eyes closed decreases the visual input used
for balance and requires increased
proprioceptive and vestibular processing for
holding the pose
• Relaxation technique for emotional
regulation
Traditional
Description:
From sitting, extend the spine while maintaining a neutral pelvic tilt. Flex knees with bilateral hip
external rotation and maintain plantar flexion as the lateral arches of the feet rest comfortably on
the mat and the medial arches settle just below the opposite shin. Focus on maintaining spinal
extension while engaging the abdominal muscles to tuck in the rib cage.
Narrative:
From sitting, inhale as you reach the top of your head towards the sky to sit up tall. Exhale and bend
your knees to cross your legs, letting the knees fall open towards the mat as you bring the feet in
towards your body. Hands can be placed on your knees, on the dog, or with palms pressed together
at the heart. Focus on stretching the top of the head towards the sky as you breathe to expand your
stomach and relax. Choose one of the following:
1. Close your eyes and draw your attention inward to the darkness behind your eyes.
2. Close your eyes, think of sunny days and open fields, and breathe loudly out of your nose like
your dog would.
Precautions:
• Provide variations for participants with ankle, knee, or lower back injuries.
• Participants with sciatica should use caution with this pose or select an alternative pose.
Variation 1 Variation 2
Variations:
• Use a timer or count the number of breaths to represent a clear end
• Sit in a chair or with the back against a wall while seated on the floor
• Use a pillow, block, or blanket underneath the sit bones to improve endurance and
circulation, and increase the angle of the pelvis and hips to alleviate lower extremity muscle
tightness
• A block or blanket can be placed underneath the knees for support (Variation 1)
• Alternate pose: Bow Wow Pose (pg. 20)
Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

• I can sit in your lap, lay in front of you, or beside you while we take deep breaths to relax
(Traditional).
• If I am a small dog and you are unable to safely hold me in your lap, I can rest in a deep sling
(Variation 2).
• If I enjoy being pet, you can offer me one long stroke for each inhale. Soon we’ll both be in
a content Dog Daze!
• If I do not enjoy being touched, use your eyes to observe my chest rising and falling with each
breath.
• If I need extra space to be comfortable, give me my own yoga mat to lay on beside or in
front of your mat.
Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

• Sit or down and stay with duration
• If using a deep sling, the dog must be comfortable with it
• Comfortable with touch
• Train for this using relaxation protocols and positive contextual associations
Bow Wow Pose

• Stretches the hip and ankle
muscles
• Increases range of motion for
shoulder flexion
• Provides an excellent
opportunity for sensory
processing by increasing
vestibular input with decreased
visual stimuli
• Increases visual input if turning
the head to the side
Traditional
Description:
From Meow and Moo Pose (pg. 32), walk the palms slightly forward, then shift the weight back until
the ischial tuberosities are resting on the heels. Hip flexion brings the trunk down towards the
quadriceps until the forehead is resting on the mat or block. Elongate the back extensors, latissimus
dorsi, glutei, piriformis, hamstrings, and tibialis anterior. Arms can be resting at the sides with shoulders
in a neutral position and forearm pronation or reaching forward with shoulder flexion and forearm
pronation. Gravity draws the yielding body deeper into position. Hold this pose for 1 or 2 minutes. This
pose may be used intermittently throughout the doga session to counteract any spinal extension
poses.
Narrative:
From Meow and Moo Pose (pg. 32), walk your hands slightly forward toward the dog. Inhale and
look towards the dog, exhale and send your bottom back to rest over your heels. Allow your belly to
rest on your thighs and relax your forehead down on the mat or block. Place your arms wherever
you feel comfortable, either resting by your sides with palms facing up or reaching in front of you
with palms against the floor. Relax your shoulders away from your face. Focus on your breath and
notice how your back expands while in this pose.
Precautions:
• Provide variations for participants with chronic knee problems or shoulder injuries.
Variations:
• Widen the space between the knees to create a more neutral extension in the spine
(Variation 1)
• Place a pillow or block under the hips, head, and/or shoulders to grade the stretch
• Place a bolster under the torso for limited range of motion (Variation 1)
• Place a folded blanket behind the backs of the thighs
• The head can be turned to one side if there is discomfort in the neck
• Sit in a chair and flex forward at the hips to lower the body towards a second chair in front of
the participant with a blanket or bolster on it (Variation 2)

• I can lie in front, facing you, and you can hide a treat under your hands.
• Stretch to touch my toes or gently place your hands on my ribcage and focus on my
breathing.
• I can lie next to you and lean against your side body while you relax into this pose.
• If you are in a chair, you can lean towards the ground to pet me or reach forward to pet me
on an elevated surface in front of you.
• Be careful when reaching forward to pet me if your head is down. I do not want to get poked
in the eye!
• It may be scary if your face is too close to mine or you stare directly into my eyes while moving
into this pose, so focus on my ribcage or my toes.

• Gentle mouth while taking treats
• Comfortable with touch
• Train for this using relaxation protocols and positive contextual associations
Reach-riever Pose
• Strengthens the spinal muscles
• Stretches the legs and feet
• Challenges dynamic trunk control
when weight is displaced
• Incorporates motor planning and
sequencing
• Bonding with the dog to facilitate
relationship development
• Talk to or provide cues to the dog to
foster expressive communication
Traditional
Description:
Sit on the mat with full spinal extension, hip abduction, knee extension, external rotation of the hip,
and ankle dorsiflexion. This pose elongates the hamstrings, hip adductors, and gastrocnemius. Walk
the hands slowly forward to flex the hips while initiating the erector spinae to maintain spinal and
neck extension. Dynamic trunk control is challenged when weight is displaced as the trunk moves
forward with hip flexion.
Narrative:
Sit tall with your legs out wide and your toes pointed towards the sky. Inhale and reach up towards
the sky. On your exhale, bend at the hips to reach straight forward with your hands on the floor,
reach both hands over one leg, or reach towards the toes of both feet while keeping your neck and
back tall. Inhale to look up and smile at the dog, exhale to lower your head and chest down towards
the ground. Start with a comfortable stretch. As your muscles adjust, attempt to stretch farther on
each exhale. You’ll be surprised at how much farther you can stretch once you get good at this
pose.
Precautions:
• Provide variations for participants with injury to the spine, hip, knees, or hamstrings.
• Those with sacroiliac joint pain should perform with caution.
• Do not stretch further than what is comfortable.
Variations:
• Increase the angle of hip flexion by keeping the torso upright (Variation 1)
• For tight hamstrings, flex one knee, bringing the foot in towards the other leg (Variation 2)
• Rest the head, hands, and/or torso on a blanket, block, or bolster if the body does not
comfortably reach the floor
• Place a block or blanket underneath the sit bones to relieve tension in the lower back
• Lie in supine with sit bones (ischia) and legs up against the wall, with legs adducted and slowly
abduct with gravity assist

• Let me choose whether to rest on the outer side of your legs or in the open space between
your legs.
• Lying in the open space between your legs feels like a nice hug to me, but be careful not to
place any of your body weight on me while reaching forward (Traditional).
• I can lie with my back near you, so when you stretch, you can reach for my back, paws, or
gently massage my legs (Variation 1).
• I can lie facing you, so when you stretch, you can reach to give me a treat.
• If I need extra space to be comfortable, give me my own yoga mat to lie on beside or in front
of your mat.
• Further instructions may be given to engage me in another activity while staying in the
position.

• Down and stay with duration
• Enjoys close proxemics
• Comfortable lying between participant’s legs
Twist and Bark Pose

• Strengthens the spinal muscles
• Stretches the shoulder, spine, and hip
muscles
• Brings awareness to postural
alignment and control
• Changes participant’s visual
perspective and provides vestibular
input
• May improve self-regulation skills
Traditional
Description:
Begin seated with spine in neutral position. The right leg is extended in front with ankle dorsiflexion
and the left is knee flexed with the left plantar aspect flat on the ground. Cross the left foot over the
right femur so the lateral arch of the left foot is pressing against outer thigh of extended leg to
elongate the hip abductors. Extend the spine and neck, then bring the right elbow to wrap around
or rest next to the lateral side of the left knee. The left arm stretches behind for trunk rotation to
strengthen the intrinsic vertebral muscles. The neck is rotated towards the direction of the twist, in line
with the spine to maintain postural alignment.
Narrative:
Sit up straight and stretch your right leg out long in front of you and bend the left leg to point the
knee up towards the ceiling. Grow your spine tall as you inhale, then exhale and twist towards the
left as you bring your right elbow to rest on or wrap around your left knee. Inhale as you bring your
left hand to the floor behind you to support your body and turn your head to look back over your
left shoulder. Exhale and smile at the dog. Inhale to lengthen the spine, exhale to twist and smile at
the dog. Keep the left hip grounded on the mat and your right toes pointed towards the ceiling.
Come to center, switch legs, and repeat on the opposite side.
Precautions:
• Twisting the spine may restrict respiration. Therefore, a participant whose respiratory function
is in any way compromised should proceed with caution.
• Those with kyphosis (rounding in the upper back) or scoliosis (curve or twist of the spine) may
benefit from focusing on lengthening the spine rather than twisting.
Variations:
• Reduce the degree of rotation of the trunk (Variation 1)
• Bend the extended knee slightly
• A pillow, block, or blanket underneath the sit bones may improve endurance, circulation,
and increase the angle of the pelvis and hips to alleviate lower extremity tightness
• If there is pressure in the lower back, keep both legs straight and cross the left ankle over the
right, then repeat on the opposite side
• While seated in a chair, the participant can cross the left thigh over the right thigh and bring
their left hand to the back of the chair (Variation 2)

• I can sit or lie behind you about an arm’s length away so you’ll be in perfect position to pet
my back or belly when you twist (Traditional).
• I can rest between your legs and may choose to rest my head on one shin next to your hand
as you twist (Variation 1).
• I can lay behind you on an elevated surface or chair with a nonslip mat placed on top as a
reminder to keep your head and back long while you reach to grow as tall as me (Variation
2).
• If I enjoy touch, place a hand on me. Just be careful not to place extra pressure on my body
as you twist!

• Move to the left or right side on cue
• Comfortable being touched
• Comfortable being on an elevated surface or chair (with non-skid surface)
Pups in the Cradle Pose
• Strengthens the abdominal muscles
• Stretches the hip and leg muscles
• Challenges balance and weight shifting
• Increases hip range of motion
• Improves body awareness and motor planning
• Fosters expressive communication when talking to
or providing cues to the dog
• Bonding with the dog to facilitate relationship
development
Traditional
Description:
Sit on the mat with hips flexed to 90°, knees extended, and ankles dorsiflexed. Press bilateral hands
against the floor next to the hips to facilitate a neutral spine and activate the abdominal muscles.
Flex the left knee and externally rotate the hip while cradling the left fibula with the right hand so
that the left plantar aspect is against the right elbow crease, creating a 90° angle with the left knee.
Hold there and breathe, elongating the hip extensors, hip internal rotators, and hip adductors.
Narrative:
Inhale as you sit up tall with your legs long in front of you and the top of your head reaching for the
ceiling. Exhale and bend the left leg, drop the knee out to the side and cradle your calf with the
right hand so that the sole of your left foot is against your right elbow crease as if you were holding
a puppy. Your left knee is the pup’s head resting gently in your left elbow crease and your left foot
is the pup’s bottom resting in your right elbow crease. Hold there as you breathe, gently opening the
hip as the knee draws closer to the earth and farther out to the side. On an exhalation, bring knee
back to center. Repeat this sequence on the other side.
Precautions:
• Remember to stop at the point where you feel a slight stretch. There should not be any pain
with this pose.
• Provide variations for participants with hip, knee, or low back injuries.
Variations:
• Lower the leg for stability (Variation 1)
• Sit in a chair to improve balance
• Place a blanket or bolster underneath the flexed leg and/or sit bones
• Bend down and give your pretend pup in the cradle a kiss to increase the stretch
• Seated figure four: place both feet on the floor with knees bent and cross the left ankle over
the right thigh, keeping the left foot flexed (Variation 2)

• I can lie on top of or to the side of your extended leg so you can bend over and give me a
pet on the belly or side.
• If you prefer to be more meditative, I can lie down in front of you facing forward.
• I can sit on an elevated surface at shoulder height and you can reach out to pet me below
my collar so that you remember to sit up tall (Variation 2)!
• Be careful that your foot is secure in your arms so that it does not slip out and bump me if I
am laying close to you.
• If it is difficult for you to balance in the pose, I may feel more comfortable on my own mat
next to you.
• I might be interested in what you are holding, so I may need a few seconds for a quick
investigative sniff to see that it’s just a foot.
• If I like agility games, let me jump over your long leg.
• You can hold a stuffed animal or weighted dog toy rather than your leg to provide a different
sensory experience and activate different muscles.

• Enjoys jumping over obstacles
• Enjoys close proxemics with participants
Sneaky Treat Pose

• Stretches the neck, shoulder, chest,
arm, and back muscles
• Improves sensory processing and
provides vestibular input
• Stretches the arms to increase
shoulder flexion range of motion
• Relaxation technique for emotional
regulation
• Challenges motor planning when
crossing midline to deliver a treat to
the dog
Traditional
Description:
Begin in quadruped with the spine and neck in neutral, hands positioned directly under the shoulders
and knees directly under the hips. Flex the hips and knees, resting the gluteal muscles over the feet.
Horizontally adduct the right shoulder across midline to bring the right arm underneath the left
shoulder. Supinate the right forearm. Maintain left elbow extension while sliding the left hand forward
to increase left shoulder flexion. Increase right shoulder horizontal adduction so that the right
shoulder girdle lowers to the mat and rotates the thoracic spine. Rotate the head and neck to look
towards the left and lower the head onto the mat.
Narrative:
Begin on your hands and knees with a long spine. Place your hands directly under your shoulders,
knees directly under your hips, and your shins and knees hip-width apart. On an exhalation, slide your
right arm underneath your left arm with your right palm facing up. Slowly push your left hand forward
on the mat while your right shoulder comes all the way down to rest on the mat. Lower the sits bones
onto the feet and bring your right ear and cheek towards the mat to gaze toward the dog on your
left. Hold the pose for up to one minute. To release, press through your left hand and gently slide your
right hand out. Return to the neutral pose on hands and knees, then repeat the pose on the opposite
side for the same length of time.
Precautions:
• Adjust body position to avoid pressing weight onto the head and neck.
• Provide variations for participants with injury to the knees, shoulders, or neck.
• Provide variations for participants with limited range of motion to avoid overstretching.
Variation:
• Place a blanket or folded yoga mat underneath the knees for support (Variation 1)
• Place forearms on floor in quadruped to decrease pressure on the wrist
• Place forearms on a bolster or stack of firm blankets to lift the trunk (Variation 2)
• Use a wall to provide extra space for people with larger chests or stomachs

• I can lay beside you while you reach underneath your arm to offer me a treat with a flat
hand. Make sure you move slowly so that the treat does not fall out of your hand!
• Ask me to move “left” or “right” as you change sides so that you can see me when you rotate
your head. You can put down a rug or small placemat to show me where I need to be.
• Observe my breathing with the rise and fall of my chest while you relax into this pose.
• Train me for this in advance and make sure I am comfortable waiting for my treat.

• Ability to ignore the treats until cued
• Move to right or left side on cue
• Comfortable with participant’s face low to the ground as they take a treat
Pointer Pose
• Strengthens the core, spine, and arm
muscles
• Improves weight bearing in the upper
extremities
• Neck extensors must work against
gravity to hold the head up
• Increases endurance when pose is
held for longer duration
• Improves body awareness with body
scans to check postural alignment
• Improves self-regulation by increasing
proprioceptive input
Traditional
Description:
Begin in quadruped, bearing weight with the upper extremities. Fully extend bilateral knees and hips,
placing weight on toes with ankle dorsiflexion. Keep spine in neutral alignment with elbow extension,
scapular abduction, forearm pronation, and wrist extension. Keep the abdominal muscles active to
protect the lower back. To increase endurance, stay in this strenuous pose for only a few seconds at
first, then as muscle strength and stamina improve, try to attempt the pose 5 times, gradually
increasing the amount of time you can sustain it. Provide verbal cues to bring attention to the breath
and improve respiratory functioning.
Narrative:
Begin in Meow Pose (pg. 32). Inhale and check your hands on the floor with arms straight and
shoulders over your wrists. Exhale and step one foot all the way back long, placing weight on toes,
then repeat with the other leg. Raise your body up onto your toes so that you are in a push-up
position looking down at the mat. Balance on your hands and feet to make a flat, straight line from
head to toe. Lift your belly button towards your spine and do not let your bottom sag or stick in up
the air. You may move between Downward Dog Pose (pg. 36), Pointer Pose (pg. 40), and Meow
Pose (pg. 32). Remember to breathe!
Precautions:
• Stop or modify the pose if the participant experiences any pain, especially in the lower back.
• Provide variations if participant is hyperextending the lumbar spine or upper extremities.
• Provide variations to decrease pressure on the wrist for participants with carpal tunnel
syndrome.
Variations:
• Use the support of a wall or chair to decrease the work against gravity (Variation 1)
• Lower the elbows and forearms or knees as supports (Variation 2)
• Place a bolster, stacked blankets, or rolled yoga mats to support the stomach or hips
• Keep the elbows slightly bent to prevent hyperextension
• Use a timer or count the number of breaths to represent a clear end
• To increase the challenge, take one foot off the ground and raise it slowly behind you and
up towards the sky

• Focus on my belly and I will make sure you remember to breathe.
• If I want to work my body too, I can jump over or crawl under you while you hold this pose.
• If it is not safe for me to move around your body, I can lie beside, in front, or behind you!
• Caution: Be sure your dog is agile enough for variations.

• Able to maneuver around the participant easily
• Trained in advance for where they will be expected to stay, whether that’s on a mat, bed, or
the floor
Make like a Tree Pose

• Strengthens the abdominal, leg, knee, and ankle muscles
• Stretches the thighs, hip adductors, torso, and shoulders
• Improves dynamic and static standing balance
• Improves weight shifting switching from one foot to the other
• Respiratory functioning may be a focus of this pose, and the
hand/s may be brought to midline to feel the expansion of
the ribcage
• Incorporates bilateral coordination by pressing palms
together or holding a dog toy at chest level with both hands
• Increases attention span when the eyes are focused on a
static spot a few feet away
• Increases proprioceptive input by weightbearing through the
joints of the lower extremities
• Improves body awareness with body scans to check postural
alignment
Traditional
Description:
Beginning in Great Dane Pose (pg. 46), activate the spinal extensors and flexors to maintain a neutral
spine throughout this pose. To raise the lifted leg, externally rotate and abduct the hip while flexing
the knee. The ankle of the lifted leg will be in dorsiflexion as it pushes against the standing leg. Ensure
that the plantar aspect does not rest on the knee joint. The standing leg maintains a neutral hip and
knee extension while activating the lateral stabilization muscles of the knee. Palms are pressed
together at midline with slight shoulder flexion and adduction, elbow flexion, and wrist, hand, and
finger extension.
Narrative:
While standing in Great Dane Pose (pg. 46), concentrate on grounding through one foot. Find a
visual spot to concentrate on during this pose about 4 feet in front of you (i.e., a part of a picture on
the wall). Imagine you are a giant tree with deep roots into the ground and your spine is a strong,
stable tree trunk. Inhale as you slowly raise one foot upward and start to balance on one leg. Once
you have your balance, bend the lifted knee and place the foot on the inner side of the ankle, calf,
or thigh. Do not press your foot on the knee joint. Place your hands with palms pressed together at
your heart, straight by your side, or wide overhead. Experiment to see which foot and arm position
makes this pose easier or harder for you. Find a position you can stay in for about 30 seconds.
Concentrate on your balance as you breathe.
Precautions:
• To prevent increased pressure on the knee joint of the standing leg, avoid locking the knee
in hyperextension and do not place the lifted foot on the knee.
• Participants with high blood pressure should keep hands at or below the heart.
Variations:
• Hold onto a chair or wall with one or both hands for balance (Variation 1)
• Stand with the back against the wall with palms at the sides pressed against the wall
• Keep the toes of the lifted foot on the floor or on a block (Variation 2)
• Sit in a chair with the leg to the side or crossed over the standing leg’s thigh
• Perform in supine with standing leg pressed against a wall
• To increase the challenge, press palms together and raise them over head or close the eyes
(Variation 2)
• Alternative pose: Leg Lifter Pose (pg. 58)

• I can sit beside you or in front of you, but make sure we both have plenty of space in case
you lose your balance!
• If you use a chair to stabilize yourself, I can sit or stand on it to face you.
• You can hand me a ball or let me lick a teeny bit of all-natural peanut butter off a spoon.
• If you are still working on your balance with the pose, you can practice with a stuffed animal
version of me while you work to get stronger.
• If I enjoy agility games, I can make a circle around your body to earn a treat!

• Comfortable placing forepaws on chair or jumping onto chair seat
• Able to maneuver around the participant easily
• Enjoys making a circle around an obstacle on cue
Further Reading
Animal Assisted Intervention International. https://aai-int.org/
Birdee, G., Yeh, G., Wayne, P., Phillips, R., Davis, R., Gardiner, M. (2010). Clinical Applications of Yoga for the Pediatric
Population: A Systematic Review Academic Pediatrics 9, 212-20.
Heyman, J. (2019). Accessible yoga: Poses and practices for everybody. Boulder, CO: Shambhala Publications, Inc.
Kaley-Isley, L., Peterson, J., Fischer, C., & Peterson, E. (2010). Yoga as a complementary therapy for children and
adolescents: a guide for clinicians. Psychiatry (Edgemont) 7 (8), 20-32.
Kirk, M., Boon, B., & DiTuro, D. (2006). Hatha Yoga Illustrated: for greater strength, flexibility, and focus. Champaign, IL:
Human Kinetics.
Ross, A., & Thomas, S. (2010). The Health Benefits of Yoga and Exercise: A Review of Comparison Studies. The Journal
of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 16 (1), 3-12.
Williams, M.S., & Shellenberger, S. (1996). How does your engine run? The Alert Program for Self-Regulation.
Albuquerque, NM: Therapy Works.
More Books in the Series: New editions of all books coming in 2020-2021!
Winkle, M. (2013). Aplicaciones Profesionales de Intervenciones Asistida con Animales: Dogwood Doga (Segunda
Edicion). NM: Dogwood.
Winkle, M. (2013) Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions: Eva’s Favorites. NM: Dogwood
Winkle, M. (2012). Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions: The Blue Dog Collection (2nd Ed.). NM:
Dogwood.
Winkle, M. (2019). Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions: The Gray Dog Collection (3nd Ed.). NM:
Dogwood.
Winkle, M. (2013). Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions: The Purple Dog Collection. NM: Dogwood
For continuing education

opportunities and more
information about AAT, AAE,
and visiting go to
www.dogwoodtherapy.com

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Professional Applications of Animal Assisted Interventions: Sneak Peek of Dogwood Doga, 3rd Edition

Professional Applications of Animal Assisted

Copyright © 2020, 2013, 2011 by Melissa Y. Winkle

Dogwood Therapy Services

People Behind the Book

Melissa Y. Winkle OTR/L, FAOTA, CPDT-KA is an Occupational Therapist

Phoebe Yam, OTD, OTR/L is an occupational therapist from Arcadia,

It takes a community to build an emerging practice area in a professional healthcare field.

Heather Park Jill Felice and Laura Collins

Dog Models, Teachers and Participants:

Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI): AAI is an interdisciplinary

Animal Assisted Placement Program (AAPP): An AAPP involves a

What’s the Point?

There is both an art and a science to the implementation of AAIs.

Keep these in mind before, during, and after each doga

Screening Clients for AAI Participation

Screening Clients for Doga Participation

The dog should be fully prepared, socialized,

Is Your Dog Right for The Job?

Organizations such as Animal Assisted Intervention International

Dog Specific Precautions:

Creating the Right Environment for Doga

Population Specific Factors

Suggested Equipment and Props

The Breath & Breathing Activity

Dog Daze Pose

Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

Bow Wow Pose

Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

Twist and Bark Pose

Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

Pups in the Cradle Pose

Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

Sneaky Treat Pose

Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

Make like a Tree Pose

Dog Perspective, Precautions and Variations:

Dog Traits, Preferences and Skills:

For continuing education

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