This got you talking: How do you feel about therapy dogs in dentistry?

Dental anxiety is real, and dental professionals are always looking for ways to take the edge off for patients and themselves. One idea that keeps resurfacing? Therapy dogs in the dental office. When RDH editors posed this question on social media, the responses came in fast and honest. From enthusiastic tail-wagging support to very real concerns about safety, sanitation, and allergies, here’s what you had to say about whether dogs belong in dentistry—and if so, where.

What a great idea! A puppy room would make all patients happy, especially in a pedo office.—@vassluvsu

Dogs make everything better.—Liz R.

[I like them] if they are legit therapy dogs. I’ve worked in a perio office that had a spoiled rotten dog. Took a crap in the op. Barked when bored.—Marianne P.

I’ve been begging for one for years. I need it more than the patients do!—Kayle E.

We have two in our office … most patients love them.—Tonya F.

No thanks; we need to keep the operatory as germ-free as possible.—Connie R.

My wife and I had an Airedale Terrier (Stella) who was a certified therapy dog that we took to our dental practice for 11 years. She provided so much comfort to so many patients and also the employees.—David T.

Perhaps in the waiting area. I wouldn’t want one in the operatory.—Ursula P.

I would love to have one on my lap while working.—Darla B.

I had a patient with one and the dog wouldn’t stay still so it was stressful and dangerous.—@oliviatalkshygiene

We generate many different high-pitched noises. I wonder how therapy dogs would react to the dental environment?—@kilalita

My concern is for patients who have allergies. My friend’s kids are allergic to dogs, and my son is allergic to cats. They prove helpful for some, however harmful for those with allergies.—@kmc.smiles

Look for RDH editors’ Question of the Week on Facebook or Instagram and join the conversation!