Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Project Portfolio

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

Susan Rose

Second Advisor

Rebecca Park-Hearn

Third Advisor

MaryKate Morse

Abstract

This project's researcher finds that Spiritual Care Facility Dog Teams (dog handlers and their dogs) lack resources and practical guides to advance Canine-Assisted Spiritual Care (CA-SC) in healthcare and facility settings. The Canine-Assisted Spiritual Care Handbook offers a comprehensive guide for establishing and sustaining CA-SC programs. It promotes standardized terminology, ethical practices, and interdisciplinary collaboration. By featuring practical tools, case studies, and training plans, the handbook supports the professional development of chaplains. Its holistic framework enhances spiritual, emotional, and physical wellness, while emphasizing the well-being of both handlers and their working dogs. The handbook’s focus on program sustainability and real-world applications positions CA-SC teams to deliver meaningful and effective spiritual care in diverse healthcare and community settings. Ann M. Snowberger is a board certified chaplain and licensed Facility Dog handler who provides CA-SC to patients, family, and staff in residential and healthcare facility settings. This project lays the foundation for writing the handbook. with a detailed outline, annotated chapter summaries, and one detailed chapter outline. CA-SC locates itself under the umbrella of Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) and Animal-Assisted Special Programs (AASP). It adopts International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations standard terminology for AAI to advance uniformity, safety, well-being, and research quality. Unique selling points emphasize innovative methodologies, case studies, and research integration. It features plans for market analysis and product launch. It includes the author’s credentials to establish credibility for addressing professional standards and advancing CA-SC in the field of professional spiritual care.

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