OVERLAND PARK, Kan. One Kansas dentist says he’s fighting for the future of his industry.

That includes the use of a certified therapy dog for anxious patients. But Kansas dentistry leaders want the dog gone from his office.

At The Art of Dentistry in south Overland Park, hygienists aren’t the only ones who greet patients. The dentistry practice is home, of sorts, to Ivy, an easy-going standard poodle, who’s almost four years old – and a certified therapy dog.

The dentistry staff says Ivy has become popular with patients who may experience anxiety before their visits. Dr. Kory Kirkegaard, who owns The Art of Dentistry, also said Ivy is completely hypoallergenic, which makes it less likely patients will experience an allergic reaction.

However, a letter from the Kansas Board of Dentistry (KDB), dated April 25, 2024, wants Ivy gone. The letter says Art of Dentistry managers must stop bringing the dog to the office immediately.

“Take Ivy out of the office, or you’re not going to have the ability to practice dentistry,” Kirkegaard said on Wednesday.

Kirkegaard said the KDB threatened to revoke his dentistry license.

The oversight board learned about Ivy after a former patient complained about an unrelated matter. Kirkegaard said Ivy is highly trained and certified, and he’s spent the better part of a year pleading his case.

Hospitals and other medical practices have used therapy animals for years, and the dentist believes this certified therapy dog serves the same function for his patients and staff.

“Why are we not doing it here in Kansas and [with] the dental board? I think it’s easier to say no than it is to say yes and have evidence-based guidelines,” Kirkegaard said.

Dr. Kirkegaard said he knows of other metro dentists who use therapy dogs in their offices. He met with KDB leaders this past week – in a gathering that was met with resistance.

Dr. Kirkegaard said the board raised concerns about safety, animal behavior and hygiene.

“She is absolutely an asset to the office and to the patients,” he said. “In fact, the first time my wife came over here, she said ‘I’ll come back over here just for Ivy.'”

On Wednesday, Lane Hemsley, the Kansas Dental Board’s executive director, refused to answer direct questions from affiliate WDAF, nor would he clarify what provisions within the Kansas Dental Practices Act might govern certified therapy animals.

“I know I’m not the only dentist who sees the value in a therapy animal. Patients who have anxiety – they deserve to have a voice in this process,” Kirkegaard said.
Before Wednesday’s session, he said Ivy hadn’t been in the office since September. He’s hopeful to see the certified professional therapy dog back full-time soon, and he said he won’t rule out hiring an attorney to fight for it.