 | For thousands of years dogs and humans have lived in close connection. Many times dogs were associated with guiding the human transition from life to death. In Egyptian mythology, Anubis, was the protector and god of the dead, while in Mexico, the mythical personage, Xolotl, was the dog-headed carrier of the human soul.
The dying process affects the emotional and spiritual Self in addition to the physical body. Because the dog-human bond is created through experience, devotion, and trust, many turn to companion dogs as a source of positive experiences.
Today, companion dogs are being used in all types of medical settings to improve patient quality of life and care. Through a phenomenological narrative methodology, my modified thesis explores how companion dogs can assist this meaningful life transition for patients facing death. |