HERO’S COMPANION THERAPY DOGS VISIT CAMP FOR CHILDREN AFFECTED BY WAR IN UKRAINE
In early August Hero’s Companion therapy dogs and volunteers took part in a charitable camp for children affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine (displaced children and children of soldiers). The camp, entitled “We – are Ukraine,” was organized by the Ukrainian Youth Association and brought together 160 children from across the country.
This was the first time Hero’s Companion had participated in such a camp, and the results were very positive. According to Nelya Lavrynenko, who headed the camp, “The therapy dogs are [did] incredible work. They sensed who needed their help, and while giving everyone attention, worked more closely with those who needed them more. They accurately picked those children, without my involvement. ‘Hero’s Companion’ dogs have exceeded my expectations.”
At the camp were three Hero’s Companion dogs: Runa, Nika, and Ricki, all of which gave 100 percent. In the mornings Runa and Nika would be with the children during catechism, and in the evenings would interact with the kids, performing tricks and showing off their skills. Initially Ricki worked one-on-one with one camper, and afterwards with two.
“I can definitely say that we were needed there!” said Hero’s Companion program co-ordinator, Olya Smirnova. “You could notice how the children changed during their interaction with the therapy dogs, how they gradually opened up and were very happy every day.”
Runa and Nika had to leave the camp before its completion to attend to commitments with soldiers and their families, but Ricki and his handler Natalia will be staying until the end.
“Thank you!” said Lavrynenko, “We had a great time with you guys, and are looking forward to future meetings!”
