Animal therapy program at TMH aids recovery, comforts crime victims

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) - Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare’s (TMH) Animal Therapy program is doing more than offering comfort.

Studies show that animal-assisted therapy can reduce heart rate and blood pressure, lower stress levels and trigger the release of feel-good hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins. This combination can help people heal faster, both physically and emotionally.

Chuck Mitchell, who helps coordinate the animal therapy services at TMH, says 38 out of the program’s 225 therapy teams are working directly with child victims of violent crimes in courtrooms across Leon, Gadsden, Wakulla and Jefferson counties.

“It makes a huge difference in these kids,” Mitchell said. “It enables them to tell their stories, to relax and feel calm in such an intimidating environment as the courts, especially if they’re having to sit across from the person who did those things to them. These dogs help them feel secure enough to talk and help make sure justice gets done.”

Mitchell visited WCTV studios with therapy dog Sharron to talk about how animal therapy can impact mental health.

The program also visits schools weekly, where students can read out loud to the dogs. Organizers said it is a simple but powerful tool for building confidence, improving reading fluency and strengthening public speaking skills.

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