therapy dogs break the silence

Diane Rich, a certified dog trainer, runs a unique pet therapy program at Camp Korey in Washington. She shares her story with us.

Childhood illnesses affect children in various ways. For some of our campers, their condition limits their ability to move and verbally communicate. Matthew, pictured above, was born with mitochondrial disease. This condition impacts children differently with mild to severe symptoms, including loss of muscle coordination and strength; vision, speech and hearing problems; and severe seizures. However, the sensation of touch has been observed to be beneficial for children with this illness.

While children with mitochondrial disease can participate in various sessions at camp, Camp Korey in Washington offers a unique Pet Therapy Program that has a huge benefit to children like Matthew. These special dogs sense the needs of those afflicted with various medical conditions, bringing joy and unconditional love to everyone they visit. They actually seem to be able to break through the secret silence.

Matthew arrived by wheelchair with his nurse and counselor to one of Camp Korey’s pet therapy sessions. Due to his condition, Matthew’s eyes are closed for a good portion of the day, but that doesn’t prevent him from having fun in all camp activities. When he came to the pet therapy activity area, he was helped out of his wheelchair and onto a blanket in the grass. One by one, each therapy dog took turns lying down on the blanket next to him. When Matthew's hand or arm was placed next to each of the dogs, he opened his eyes, keeping them open for extended periods of time. His excitement was present and felt by everyone around. “This is a dramatic response for Matthew. It was the longest period of time that he had gone seizure-free that week,” said his camp counselor.

Do therapy pets bring something special to camp? You bet! This wonderful experience combined with special canine friends help to break the silence for those unable to verbally communicate.