As a human services organization, one of Canine Assisted Therapy’s goals is to identify the needs of our community and respond to these developments accordingly. Over the years there’s been increasing demand for therapy dogs at behavioral and mental health facilities, as well as after traumatic events like the 2018 tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and the condo collapse in Surfside. With recent studies showing anxiety and depressive disorders on the rise, professionals working in the mental health and first responder fields are recognizing the value of canine-assisted interventions and the emotional health benefits it has on people affected by trauma.

Through the use of animal assisted intervention and our certified pet therapy teams, Canine Assisted Therapy’s Mental Health and Trauma Response (MHTR) program addresses this need by providing intermediate emotional support to those in the wake of trauma or battling a mental health crisis.

WHAT IS THE MENTAL HEALTH AND TRAUMA RESPONSE PROGRAM? Interacting with a trained animal in a safe environment can provide comfort and relief to those affected by unforeseen tragedy or mental health related trauma. The animal’s presence provides a sense of security and familiarity, which aids in building rapport and trust with an individual experiencing crisis. The MHTR program provides psychologically therapeutic interactions with trained handlers and their therapy dogs, which can help reduce the likelihood of developing PTSD.