Family Action’s Stockton Family Time Service is marking National Pet Day, on April 11th, in a truly special way by celebrating the profound impact of therapy dogs. In honour of the day, children who benefit from time with these compassionate canine companions have expressed their love and appreciation through art.
Their heartfelt creations, depicting the joy and comfort therapy dogs bring, will be displayed around the centre as a tribute to the invaluable role these animals play in their lives.
We see first-hand the positive impact these animals have on children who have faced challenging experiences.
Therapy dogs provide a source of comfort and affection to children navigating difficult circumstances. Whether offering a calming presence, easing anxiety, or simply sharing unconditional love, these dogs play a crucial role in helping children feel safe and supported. Through their artwork, the children have captured the essence of what makes their therapy dogs so special to them.
Family Action’s Stockton Family Time Service works in partnership with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council to provide supervised family time for children and families who, for various reasons, can no longer live together. As part of this initiative, therapy dogs are present during Family Time sessions to create a reassuring and relaxed environment, supporting children’s emotional well-being.
Emma Crawford-Moore, Operations Manager at Family Action, said: “National Pet Day is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the incredible bond between children and therapy dogs. At Family Action Stockton Family Time Service, we see firsthand the positive impact these animals have on children who have faced challenging experiences. The artwork created by the children is a touching tribute to the love and support they receive from these special dogs, and we are proud to celebrate their role in bringing comfort and joy.”
We have seen the dogs creating a connection with children with social and emotional needs; assisting them to regulate and engage with others in the sessions with the dogs by their side.
One of the most significant benefits of therapy dogs is their ability to help children cope with past trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Their presence has been shown to reduce stress, provide companionship, and promote emotional healing.
Kira Leith-Ross, Family Time Facilitator at Family Action, said: “The dogs help establish trust with parents and children and the families we support appreciate the sense of normality and ‘home’ the dogs bring them. We have seen the dogs creating a connection with children with social and emotional needs; assisting them to regulate and engage with others in the sessions with the dogs by their side. The dogs are not fazed by the children’s outbursts; providing unconditional positive regard to the child.”
Through initiatives like these, Family Action Stockton Family Time Service continues to provide a safe and nurturing space where children can build positive memories, strengthen relationships, and receive the emotional support they need.
