T.G.I.F.! Have you been following my
A to Z Challenge story this month? What a journey! I have been studying and trying to give a voice for
child abuse and
sexual assault awareness this month.
Today, I am excited to introduce:
SHADOW.
Shadow is my beautiful German/Australian Shepherd mix dog, and what a beauty she is!
Dog/Pet therapy is probably one of the best ways I personally know of to move from victim to survivor. If you have ever been through a traumatizing time, you know that a furry friend can be your best advocate in times of silence.
There were dozens of times when I was knee-deep in tissues and my face looked like a punching bag thanks to all the tears. And who was always there for me? Shadow. As if she has a sixth sense, Shadow would come find me and burrow in close for a cuddle. And this a dog who does not like to be cuddled close.
At
Safe Haven, their dogs are seen as excellent therapists for child abuse victims because they:
- Do not judge
- Can provide safe, non-threatening touch & channel for communication
- What a child sees is what they get
- A four legged spa
Do you have a four legged pal? Are they always good for a safe and comforting hug?
