On the eve of the Day of Defenders of Ukraine, a canine-assisted therapy session for veterans and servicemen took place at the Resilience Center. The event was organized in partnership with the Security Police Department in the Zhytomyr region and the Police Academy.

Participants interacted with specially trained dogs — Jack Russells Azart and Okhara, and a German Shepherd named Tara. They took part in trust-building exercises, gave commands, and shared stories about their own pets. This format became a source of joy, warmth, and inner calm.

Among the guests was Andrii Zabiihailo, Head of the Department for Veterans’ Affairs of the Zhytomyr City Council, who also joined the event.

Kateryna Kyriienko, a practical psychologist at the Center, explained the effectiveness of the method:
“Canine-assisted therapy shows remarkable results in working with military personnel. Even brief interaction with a dog reduces anxiety, alleviates PTSD symptoms, and helps restore inner balance. It is not about treatment — it is about live connection that brings a sense of warmth and support.”

The Resilience Center runs psychological recovery groups for military personnel, and canine-assisted therapy has become another effective tool of support.