About Medical Scent Detection Dogs
Cortisol is often called the “stress hormone.” When people experience anxiety or stress, their cortisol levels typically increase. Dogs have up to 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, compared to about 6 million in humans, making them capable of detecting these subtle chemical changes.
In our practice, a medical scent detection dog can:
- Detect elevated cortisol levels indicating patient anxiety
- Provide a calming presence when needed
- Help create a more comfortable environment for nervous patients
- Assist in identifying patients who might need additional support
About Finley
Finley is a medical scent (cortisol) service dog in training at our practice. He works with Dr. Bourget across our locations in Gander, Dartmouth, and Truro.
Finley’s training includes:
- Basic obedience and socialization
- Scent detection specific to cortisol
- Medical environment familiarization
- Public access training
- Ongoing skill maintenance
No. For infection control and safety:
- Finley has access to waiting areas and consultation rooms
- He does not enter sterile surgical environments
- He does not enter sterilization areas
- His movements are carefully managed to maintain medical standards
Safety and Hygiene
Our practice maintains strict protocols:
- Regular health check-ups and grooming for Finley
- Standard medical sterilization procedures
- Clear boundaries for Finley’s access areas
- Regular cleaning and sanitization
- Adherence to all medical facility standards
Please inform our staff when booking your appointment. We can:
- Schedule appointments during times when Finley is not present
- Ensure proper cleaning protocols
- Provide alternative comfort measures
- Maintain allergen-free spaces
Practical Information
When scheduling your appointment, let our staff know if you would like Finley present. His availability will depend on:
- Your appointment location
- The type of procedure
- The day’s schedule
- Your specific needs
No. Interaction with Finley is completely optional and based on:
- Patient preference
- Medical considerations
- Procedure requirements
- Finley’s schedule
Scientific Background
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that:
- Helps regulate stress response
- Affects blood pressure
- Influences immune system function
- Impacts wound healing
- Can affect surgical outcomes
Research has shown that elevated stress levels can impact surgical outcomes through:
- Increased blood pressure
- Altered immune response
- Affected healing rates
- Changed medication requirements
- Modified recovery times
Location Information
Dr. Bourget provides oral surgery services at three locations:
Gander Office 91 Roe Ave, Gander, NL, A1V 1W8 Phone: 709-391-6637
Dartmouth Office 18 Acadia Street, Dartmouth, NS, B2Y 4H3 Phone: 902-334-0700
Truro Office 510 Prince Street, Truro, NS, B2N 1G1 Phone: 902-843-3330