Event Highlights Importance of Dogs in Mental Health
MERIDIAN, Idaho — On Saturday, a variety of dogs gathered at Storey Bark Park for the PAWS for Mental Wellness event, organized by Access Behavioral Health. This annual gathering unites mental health organizations, animal-focused nonprofits, and community partners to emphasize the vital link between animals and emotional health.
One standout organization was Idaho’s Team Go Therapy Dogs, a volunteer program that brings therapy dogs to various locations, including schools and hospitals across the Treasure Valley. Cheryl Minto from the group shared, “We want to be there to bring that to our community… a little unconditional love.”
Team Go includes around 150 dog-and-handler teams volunteering throughout the state, offering comfort and joy to those in difficult situations. Minto highlighted the positive effects dogs have in alleviating stress and providing emotional support.
The event also welcomed representatives from Guide Dogs for the Blind, who train guide dogs for those who are blind or visually impaired. Their local program collaborates with the Idaho Department of Corrections, where puppies are raised by inmates during the week and socialized by local volunteers over the weekends.
“Our Treasure Valley volunteers are crucial for weekend puppy raising,” noted a Guide Dogs representative, underscoring the collaborative effort.
This story was enhanced by AI but verified for accuracy by our editorial team.
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