Have you heard of the book Good Dogs, Great Listeners?
Woody, Project Harmony’s resident Facility Dog, is proof that good dogs do make great listeners. He works throughout the agency including forensic interviews, family advocacy, and mental health. Woody is a 2-year-old English Golden Retriever who comes from Patriot Paws Service Dogs in Rockwall, TX.
Woody helps kids feel safe and comfortable as they describe the abuse they have experienced or crime they have witnessed. He calms their fears and brings smiles to faces that have not smiled in a long time. One of Woody’s most valued qualities is the unconditional love and attention that he gives to the children with whom he interacts.
“We’ve already seen a huge difference in just how excited the children are to see him,” said Project Harmony Director of Communications Angela Roeber. “Children come in anxious and scared and as soon as they see him, they relax. There is something about petting a dog that is so calming and therapeutic. The more you pet him the more he comforts you and it really makes that child, who is going through a terrible situation, feel better.”
Woody came to Project Harmony in August of 2019, but before he was matched with Project Harmony he went through extensive training from the time he was 8 weeks old – learning basic commands and being socialized in public and private settings to advanced training that supports the work of a facility dog in a child advocacy center.
Connect with Woody on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes photos!
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