The Zebra Child and Youth Advocacy Centre has expanded its facility dog program with the addition of two new members, Moose and Zeppelin, both two-year-old Lab/Golden Retriever mixes. These highly trained canines joined the team two months ago and have already begun their important work of providing comfort and support to children who have experienced abuse. Moose, trained by the Lions Foundation in Ontario, and Zeppelin, from Dogs With Wings in Edmonton, bring their specialized skills to the Zebra Centre, following in the paw prints of Captain, a six-year-old black lab and four-year veteran of the program. Their arrival marks a significant step forward in the Centre’s mission to create a safe and supportive environment for children navigating the complexities of trauma.
The introduction of Moose and Zeppelin highlights the unique role that facility dogs play in the healing process. Often, children who have experienced abuse find it difficult to verbalize their trauma. The presence of a non-judgmental, comforting companion like a facility dog can help bridge this communication gap. These dogs offer an immediate sense of security, making it easier for children to relax and, in some cases, open up about their experiences. The dogs’ presence also empowers children, offering them the courage to navigate the often-intimidating environment of a child advocacy centre. While not every child will choose to interact with the dogs, their mere presence provides a reassuring and calming influence for many.
The Zebra Centre’s facility dog program, formerly known as VIP (Very Important Paws), has been a cornerstone of their support services since its inception in 2013. Now renamed The Buddy Dog program in honor of the late Buddy Victor, a dedicated supporter of the Centre, the program underscores the vital role these animals play in aiding children through difficult times. Buddy Victor’s legacy of compassion and support lives on through the program’s commitment to providing comfort and strength to children facing adversity. The renaming further solidifies the program’s significance within the Zebra Centre’s overall mission of providing a safe and nurturing environment for vulnerable children.
The training that Moose, Zeppelin, and Captain have undergone is extensive, preparing them for the specific challenges and sensitivities of working with children who have experienced trauma. This specialized training equips them with the ability to remain calm and comforting in emotionally charged situations, providing a consistent source of support. Their training also focuses on developing patience and resilience, crucial attributes for working in a courtroom setting. The goal is for both Moose and Zeppelin to eventually follow in Captain’s footsteps and provide support to children during court proceedings, a demanding task that requires a unique blend of temperament and training.
The transition for Moose and Zeppelin has been smooth, thanks to their innate abilities and the welcoming environment at the Zebra Centre. Their playful personalities shine through, yet they possess an intuitive understanding of when to adopt a more sensitive approach. The dogs recognize the significance of their work, seamlessly transitioning from playful pups to comforting companions when their vests are donned. This adaptability is a testament to their training and their inherent understanding of the important role they play in the lives of the children they serve. The staff at the Zebra Centre are equally enthusiastic about the new additions, recognizing the significant positive impact these dogs will have on the children who come through their doors.
The expansion of the Buddy Dog program with the arrival of Moose and Zeppelin represents a significant commitment to providing comprehensive support for children affected by abuse. These highly skilled dogs are more than just comforting companions; they are integral members of the Zebra Centre team, playing a crucial role in the healing process. Their presence offers a unique form of support, providing solace, courage, and a sense of security to children navigating difficult experiences. As Moose and Zeppelin settle into their new roles, they embody the spirit of the program’s namesake, Buddy Victor, continuing his legacy of compassion and support for the children who need it most.
