Transforming stray dogs into therapy dogs to assist people with special needs

People with autism are generally not so good at expressing themselves and are prone to anxiety. However, through interaction with therapy dogs, simple commands and actions, these dog-cum-teachers gradually find a way into the hearts of autistic people. These therapy dogs spread such positive energy, but behind their tame, people-friendly appearance lies some sad stories - all four therapy dogs came from animal shelters. Despite being abandoned or rejected by society, they have once again accepted through social training.

The therapy dog team provides interactive healing courses, lectures, behavioral adjustments for furry kids, and various other services. This is raising awareness about the effectiveness of therapy dogs, and at the same time, promoting the benefits of local animal healing in Taiwan. It is hoped that through liaising with more institutions and families, two significant issues in Taiwan, the stray dog problem and providing for people with special needs, may someday be solved.

以下為中文對照

流浪狗化身心輔犬 走進特教生心靈

自閉症患者平時不擅長用言語表達，容易出現焦慮的情緒，但藉由與心輔犬互動，簡單的口令和動作，讓狗老師逐漸走進他們的內心。散播正能量的心輔犬，在溫馴親人的背後，其實還有著令人心酸的故事。四隻狗老師，都來自動物之家，他們曾被社會遺棄或拒絕，但透過社會化訓練，能夠再一次的，接納人群。

心輔犬團隊不只提供互動療癒課程，同時也提供講座、毛小孩行為調整等服務，讓更多人了解心輔犬如何提供幫助，同時推廣台灣在地動物療癒的好處，未來計畫要走入更多機構與家庭，期望能解決流浪犬及特殊教育這兩大議題。

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