Comfort Dogs Boost Confidence in NYC Schools
The New York City Department of Education has expanded its “Comfort Dog Program” to approximately 50 schools across the five boroughs. Initiated as a pilot in 2016, the program places trained therapy dogs in classrooms to assist students with their studies and emotional well-being over a six-week course. Educators have observed that the presence of these dogs reduces anxiety and encourages emotional openness among students. The program costs schools $1,000 annually and requires handlers to train dogs through the Good Dog Foundation. While public data on the program’s success is limited, students have reported increased motivation and readiness to face challenges in school.
UK Military Dogs Receive High-Tech Gear Upgrade
Britain’s military working dogs are set to receive a £3 million upgrade in protective gear, including high-tech vests, blast goggles, ear defenders, and rubber-soled boots. These enhancements aim to safeguard the dogs from various hazards such as temperature extremes, glass, and shrapnel. The upgrade also features new harnesses that allow dogs to parachute from planes with troops. Demonstrations of the gear took place in Rutland, highlighting the dogs’ crucial roles in mine-clearing and detecting dangers. The Ministry of Defence emphasizes the invaluable contributions of these dogs in various military operations over the past 15 to 20 years, especially in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Senior Dog Finds Forever Home After 13 Years in Shelter
Vito, a senior dog, spent 13 years in shelter care before finding his perfect adopter, Casey Black, at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah. Vito faced challenges due to biting behaviors, which required a patient, experienced owner. Black, with a background in canine conservation from the Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Center, matched these needs. He built trust with Vito through numerous visits and sleepovers, including camping trips, until officially adopting him in March. Now, Vito and Black share a strong bond, enjoying travels and wilderness walks together. Vito’s story highlights Best Friends Animal Society’s mission to make U.S. shelters no-kill by 2025, reflecting a significant decrease in animal euthanasia.
Houseguest Charged with Animal Cruelty in New York
Benjamin Tyler, 39, is accused of strangling and dismembering his host’s English Bulldog, Bruno, and scattering the remains in dumpsters across Westchester County. Tyler, staying with a 41-year-old man in New Rochelle, allegedly carried out the crime on December 6. Bruno’s dismembered remains were found in various locations, according to the New Rochelle district attorney’s office. Surveillance video implicated Tyler, who turned himself in and was charged with aggravated cruelty to animals. Despite the severe nature of the crime, Tyler was released due to the state’s bail laws.
Puppy Rescued from Storm Drain Finds Home Before Holidays
A Jack Russell Terrier puppy, initially named Poinsettia and later renamed Shepard, was rescued from a storm drain in Austin, Texas, earlier this month. The 12-week-old puppy, weighing less than 4 lbs., was discovered by Cassie, a resident who heard her cries while taking out the trash. The Austin Fire Department rescued the soaked and shivering puppy, and Austin Pets Alive provided the required life-saving care, treating her for seizures and a possible leg injury. Shepard was adopted by Nisa Wilson and her family soon after, with Wilson expressing immense gratitude for their new pet. This rescue and adoption just before the holidays marks a happy ending for the little pup.
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