Dogs bring so much happiness to people. This is why several dogs are trained to be therapy dogs because they can be instrumental in people’s healing. But more than this, the mere presence of dogs already give security to people. This includes those who are reforming themselves behind bars.
This is how some therapy dogs are helping inmates in Virginia. The dogs are part of the dog therapy program that kickstarted at Middle River Regional Jail in Staunton in May. The event happened during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but the volunteers still went through with the same activity.
The pandemic inevitably brought adverse effects, including effects to the psyche of inmates. This is why the jail officials thought it would be best that the inmates benefit as recipients of the program.
After a few weeks of the program, officials took note of the positive changes in the mood and attitude of some of the inmates. This included them encouraging each other to open up with any problems they encounter inside the jail.
Aside from this, the communication among the inmates likewise improved. Previously, some of them were at odds with each other because of differences. When the therapy dogs came, there were some improvements to this problem.
Stacey Payne, one of the dogs’ trainers, believes that inmates deserve to be given a chance at life. This is why this kind of therapy session is needed more than ever. For Stacey, some inmates have repressed emotions and feelings, making it difficult for them to open up.
Through the presence of therapy dogs, this problem could be addressed. Stacey is pleased to hear that there are positive effects after the therapy program. According to the trainer, they would continue with this program as long as Virginia’s inmates need it.
Credits to WSLS 10.