Dog Therapy

A dog can be so much more than a best friend... Especially for someone who is hurting. Reporter A...  More »

A dog can be so much more than a best friend... Especially for someone who is hurting. Reporter Amber Schatz introduces us to Maggie, and her healing powers. Shannon Hilfer/Dakota Children's Advocacy Center) "I just think animals have such a wonderful calming effect on people, I think they can be used in so many different settings." She's reliable... controllable... and after being around her for only a few minutes... extremely lovable. All traits that qualify Maggie to be a registered therapy dog. (Shannon Hilfer) "Research shows that just having a dog present in the room, even if kids don't touch her at all reduces all physical symptoms of stress, heart rate goes down, respiratory comes down, kids just instantly relax." And for Shannon's job... Having kids feel comfortable is essential. She has to get kids of all ages to open up about very painful issues like sexual abuse, in sometimes only a half hour of time. "They a lot of times don't understand what's going on, it's anxiety-producing for them to have to come in and sit down with someone they don't know and talk about things like sexual abuse." That's where the 8-year-old golden retriever comes in. "Kids just love her and love to pet on her and then they'll start talking about their pets and it's just that instant door-opener for them." Maggie's gentle nature can put almost anyone at ease... Even teenagers who want no part in talking about their abuse. "A lot of times they're embarrassed or ashamed so it's not as easy for them to come in and talk as it is a little kids because they're aware of all those other social influences, it's pretty hard to maintain an attitude when rubbing and petting a dog and she's right in their face." Dog TLC that ultimately helps abuse victims to tell their story... And begin the healing process. "Animals just provide that unconditional acceptance for people they don't care what's happened to you or how much money you make or what kind of clothes you're wearing." "Really, what could make a place more child-friendly than a big old dog laying around. (laughs) Amber Schatz, KX News. Shannon says she's working with the courts to see if Maggie could also be present in the courtroom when children have to testify... Something she's hoping to change in the near future.  « Less