Thirteen rescue dogs have now been placed with war trauma survivors as part of our 2021 Comfort Dog Project training class. As part of the bonding process, each guardian is asked to give their dog a new name. In the Acholi culture, names are a way of sending a message to the outside world. Here are some of the names of the 2021 Comfort Dogs, along with their meanings:
After completing screening assessments, including a home check and family interview, the severity of each guardian's PTSD symptoms was formally assessed.
After the dogs were placed with the guardians, a 20 week training program was commenced. The training program curriculum is aimed at developing a strong bond between the dog and guardian. Training communication through "sit", "stay", and other commands is supplemented by grooming, washing, and education about dogs and how to care for them. Along with the dog bonding, guardians receive individual and group counseling to help them to repair the emotional injuries which persist following the war.
The Comfort Dog Project makes a lifetime commitment to each dog and guardian. Every dog receives a monthly wellness check and free veterinary care for life. Every guardian will receive counseling services for themselves and their immediate family members, and the opportunity to be part of a supportive community that we have created at BIG FIX Uganda.
It is only because of the sponsors of each of our existing and new Comfort Dog Project teams that this work can occur - healing the lives of each dog and each trauma survivor one at a time. THANK YOU to the sponsors of all of our teams!
- Lagen means you have to trust yourself
- Atwero means I can do it
- Angeyo means I know, referencing all that one has been through much during his/her life
- Peyot means it is not easy
- Rubanga-mamiyo means it is God who gives
- Rubanga Ngeyo means God knows everything
- Megi means you trust what is yours
After completing screening assessments, including a home check and family interview, the severity of each guardian's PTSD symptoms was formally assessed.
After the dogs were placed with the guardians, a 20 week training program was commenced. The training program curriculum is aimed at developing a strong bond between the dog and guardian. Training communication through "sit", "stay", and other commands is supplemented by grooming, washing, and education about dogs and how to care for them. Along with the dog bonding, guardians receive individual and group counseling to help them to repair the emotional injuries which persist following the war.
The Comfort Dog Project makes a lifetime commitment to each dog and guardian. Every dog receives a monthly wellness check and free veterinary care for life. Every guardian will receive counseling services for themselves and their immediate family members, and the opportunity to be part of a supportive community that we have created at BIG FIX Uganda.
It is only because of the sponsors of each of our existing and new Comfort Dog Project teams that this work can occur - healing the lives of each dog and each trauma survivor one at a time. THANK YOU to the sponsors of all of our teams!