HEART Pet Therapy Program

^{The HEART program therapy dogs Birdie and Minnie with their handlers Chief Sam Garrison and Sgt. Scott Fleitman}

The Texas Woman’s University (TWU) Police Department is excited to announce the implementation of a new pet therapy program — Healing and Emotional Assistance Response Team (HEART) — in partnership with Pet Partners, a renowned national organization dedicated to improving human health and well-being through the human-animal bond. The HEART Program introduces two registered therapy dog teams to provide compassionate support and emotional assistance to individuals experiencing stress, trauma, or crisis.

Recognizing the significant mental health challenges faced by students, faculty, staff, and community members, the HEART program utilizes these therapy dogs to offer comfort, reduce anxiety, and foster a sense of safety and wellbeing.

How does it work?

On campus, the HEART program can be integrated into various settings such as classrooms, counseling centers, and residence halls to promote a calming atmosphere and enhance the overall mental health environment. The therapy dogs can also participate in community outreach events, offering emotional support at local schools, hospitals, and other community centers, thereby strengthening community relations and promoting mental wellness beyond the campus borders.

In times of crisis, HEART teams are trained to respond quickly and effectively, providing immediate emotional relief to individuals in distress. The presence of a therapy dog can help de-escalate tense situations, provide a non-judgmental source of comfort, and encourage open communication between the person in crisis and responding officers. This compassionate approach not only aids in the immediate emotional stabilization of individuals but also supports their long-term recovery and wellbeing.

The benefits of police departments offering emotional support through programs like HEART are manifold. It fosters a more positive relationship between law enforcement and the community, demonstrating a commitment to holistic care and community-oriented policing. By addressing the emotional and psychological needs of individuals, the HEART program enhances the overall effectiveness of traditional law enforcement activities, contributing to safer and more resilient communities.

All therapy dog teams are insured by Pet Partners, ensuring a safe and reliable program for all participants.

About the program

The TWU Police Department’s pet therapy program is designed to be flexible and accessible. The therapy dog teams are available for a variety of activities, including being on call for immediate support during stressful events and attending scheduled events across the campus and community. Whether it's during finals week, after a critical incident, or at special gatherings, Minnie and Birdie are ready to provide their unique form of comfort and support.

Research has shown that therapy dogs can significantly benefit the community by reducing anxiety, lowering blood pressure, and providing emotional support. The presence of therapy dogs has been proven to create a calming effect, helping individuals to cope with stress, grief, and trauma. The TWU Police Department is committed to leveraging these benefits to foster a healthy and supportive environment where the needs exist.

Questions?

For more information about the pet therapy program or to schedule a visit from Minnie and Birdie, please contact the TWU Police Department at (940) 898-2911 or twupolice@twu.edu. If you have an emergency, please contact 9-1-1.

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About Pet Partners

Pet Partners is the national leader in demonstrating and promoting the health and wellness benefits of animal-assisted therapy, activities, and education. With thousands of registered teams making millions of visits annually, Pet Partners serves as the largest and most prestigious nonprofit registering handlers of multiple species as volunteer teams.

Page last updated 12:09 PM, July 23, 2024