Spreading smiles with animal therapy
BRAAMFONTEIN: The Teddy Bear Clinic for Abused Children is filled with love, smiles and animal love.
In their aim to spread smiles for miles, Touch Our Pets Therapy Dogs visited the Children’s Memorial Institute in Braamfontein to be part of the Kids Court Preparation Programme.
The Teddy Bear Clinic for Abused Children runs this monthly programme to prepare victims and their families for their day in court. They are often not familiar with the criminal justice system which, in many instances, creates fear.
The dogs were introduced to the group and some children were filled with excitement while others kept their distance. “A fear of dogs is not unusual where a child has never had a dog as a pet,” said Angela de Bruyn, head of fundraising at the clinic.
“We all know that we often fear the unknown, but once we have had an experience or built a relationship with the unknown, our fears dwindle.”
The children and their families were taught that the experience of meeting people or dogs for the first time can be frightening, but the more time spent with the unfamiliar can create confidence.
“This process can be likened to facing and overcoming fears, which becomes a journey to healing,” said De Bruyn.
According to research conducted by Touch Our Pets Therapy Dogs, stroking, talking to and making eye contact with an animal lowers blood pressure. Stress is relieved and depression is eased by the increase of the ‘feel good’ hormones.
Details: 011 484 4554.
