Jo Jo the Doggy Dental Nurse Helps to Comfort Nervous Children in Illinois

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A dental nurse with a difference is helping to make going to the dentist a little less scary for children in Illinois. Jo Jo, a six-year-old golden retriever helps to soothe anxious patients and give them a welcome distraction whilst they are in the dental chair.

Jo Jo is an integral part of the team at Paediatric Dentistry of Northbrook and she has made a really positive difference since joining a couple of years ago. Children are automatically excited when they see her and she helps to soothe and relax them. She is very gentle and she will sit with the children while they have their dental appointment. She enjoys cuddles and is very obedient.

Jo Jo currently visits the practice once or twice a week. Her handler, Lynne Ryan, approached dentists Drs Paul Eggar and Thomas Resnick with the idea of using Jo Jo as a therapy dog for anxious children. She was an instant hit and even has her own profile on the clinic’s ‘meet the team’ page.

Prior to joining the team, Jo Jo worked as a therapy and comforting dog in various settings. She was one of the first on scene at Sandy Hook Elementary School following the shootings in 2012.

Before she started work at the clinic, Jo Jo underwent special training to get her used to the sights and sounds of the dental treatment room. Now, she trots in without a care in the world and she has made a massive difference to patients and staff alike.

Veronica Renteria, a member of staff at the clinic, said that the difference in patients is amazing. Previously, some of the patients would need sedation or anaesthetic to relax, but now, they are content with Jo Jo’s presence. They sit and pet her while the dentist gets to work and the thought of her being there makes the prospect of going to the dentist much less scary. The staff also love having her around.

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