(CN - HKG) Animal Therapy Group to Honor 8 Dogs

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Sep 5, 9:54 am ET

 

HONG KONG (Reuters) - A Hong Kong animal rights group will honor eight dogs

this weekend to raise awareness of the therapeutic benefits of man's best

friend. The group says studies have shown that close proximity to animals

such as

cats and dogs can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels and reduce

the risk of heart disease.

 

Eight dogs, accompanied by their handlers and owners, will be presented with

trophies at a ceremony Sunday, said Anneleise Smillie of Animals Asia

Foundation.

 

Most of them are part of a therapy program known as Animals Asia Dr. Dog,

which has a 300-strong canine force that has made regular visits to

hospitals, orphanages, schools, centers for the disabled and geriatric homes

since 1991.

 

Among those honored would be Ocha, a 10-year-old Pekinese which lost her

sight in an accident several years ago but which has turned out to be a

favorite with blind children.

 

A two-year-old golden retriever called Jungle will be singled out for the

inspiration he gave his cancer-stricken owner.

 

The owner was diagnosed with lung cancer and given six months to live, but

her love for Jungle made her cling on to life for two-and-a-half years

before succumbing to the disease in May, Smillie said.

 

Three are police dogs. One captured over 100 criminals and another found 60

grams of heroin on someone arriving at a border check point.