The Ohio Northern University chapter of the American Society of Consulting Pharmacists (ASCP) will host a presentation on animal-assisted therapy led by Kim Bullock, a licensed social worker from Lima Memorial Hospital, in room 151 of ONU’s Hakes-Pierstorf Family Pharmacy Education Center on Monday, Sept. 10, at 7 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public.

Bullock will bring other therapy dog handlers and their dogs to inform the campus about this special and effective alternative therapy, a non-pharmacological option for many patient populations, including the elderly. Geriatric patients typically cannot tolerate as many medications as a younger person due to the higher risk of adverse effects.

 In recent years, health care professionals have noticed the therapeutic effect of animal companionship: relieving stress, lowering blood pressure, raising spirits and making contact with people who have become withdrawn. The most important feature of a therapy dog is a good temperament. Patience, gentleness, friendliness, confidence and ease with strangers are all essential qualities in a therapy dog.

The vision of the ASCP is optimal medication management and improved health outcomes for all older persons. Its mission is to empower pharmacists to enhance quality of care for all older persons through the appropriate use of medication and the promotion of healthy aging.