With approximately 1.2 million dogs euthanized in shelters annually, and thousands of young offenders serving time in juvenile correctional facilities, a proactive approach that nurtures the positive, underdeveloped capacities in challenged teens -- while giving shelter dogs a second chance -- offers one innovative solution to two seemingly insurmountable challenges. We have read many stories about the amazing healing powers that companion animals provide. The effects are often dramatic in the most vulnerable populations.
For the past 10 years, teens from less-than-optimal circumstances have had the opportunity to overcome the effects of their past, their limitations, and their fears, by training homeless shelter dogs at K9 Connection in Santa Monica, California.
Through their interaction with the animals, the teens gain life-changing experiences such as learning accountability, positive reinforcement over abuse, patience, social skills, goal setting, and -- perhaps most importantly -- empathy; while the dogs receive obedience training that increases their chances of adoption. Read the full article to discover all of the results of this program by clicking here.
Katie Carroll @ on — Edited @ on
With approximately 1.2 million dogs euthanized in shelters annually, and thousands of young offenders serving time in juvenile correctional facilities, a proactive approach that nurtures the positive, underdeveloped capacities in challenged teens -- while giving shelter dogs a second chance -- offers one innovative solution to two seemingly insurmountable challenges. We have read many stories about the amazing healing powers that companion animals provide. The effects are often dramatic in the most vulnerable populations.
For the past 10 years, teens from less-than-optimal circumstances have had the opportunity to overcome the effects of their past, their limitations, and their fears, by training homeless shelter dogs at K9 Connection in Santa Monica, California.
Through their interaction with the animals, the teens gain life-changing experiences such as learning accountability, positive reinforcement over abuse, patience, social skills, goal setting, and -- perhaps most importantly -- empathy; while the dogs receive obedience training that increases their chances of adoption. Read the full article to discover all of the results of this program by clicking here.