The dog has become an invaluable tool
for the funeral home in helping local families deal with their grief. Some people even ask to bring the
dogs with them to the cemetery, providing them with some comfort while they
visit the burial site of a loved one.
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"Our experience has shown that people can let go totally
when they interact with a dog. The dogs are just there, to pet, to hug and to
cry on," said Ursula Kempe, president of Therapy Dogs International.
"Their calming, loving presence can
help during times of extreme grief. There is no need to talk, just to feel. The
dogs can give what humans cannot."
While therapy dogs have become common
in hospitals, mental health facilities and schools, G.H. Herrmann is unique in
using certified therapy dogs in its funeral homes.
Herrmann came up with the idea about
using therapy dogs in his funeral homes after a discussion with a long-time
friend. Kevin Knartzer, director of training and canine development at Bargersville
Veterinary Hospital, trains service dogs for the disabled.

"They're planning for their grandfather's funeral, and
they're crying. Then all of a sudden they see a dog, and they smile, their eyes
light up and they felt better," Herrmann said.
"It lifts people's spirits. Dogs give people a chance to
take a break from their biggest worry and really have a moment to think of
something else," Knartzer said. "People
almost transfer their feelings to the dog. It gives them that respite for a
moment."
The program at G.H. Herrmann started
tentatively. Herrmann was concerned that while some people might enjoy having a
dog present while they planned a funeral, others would complain. But after three years, he has yet to
hear anything negative about the program. G.H. Herrmann now features four dogs,
which split time between the three Herrmann locations.
- Jax a laid-back black Labrador
- Lady is the diva of the group
- Birch loves to catch the Frisbee
- Gracie is the latest arrival
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