Talk to the dogs

Dogs get what a lot of people don’t.

In Newtown, Connecticut, National Geographic reports today, K-9 dogs are being brought in to counsel kids in the wake of last week’s tragedy.

Tim Hetzner, leader of the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) K9 Comfort Dogs, reveals the secret to why dogs provide better therapy than adults.

“I think that’s a common mistake people make in crisis situations–feeling obligated to give some sort of answer or advice, when really, those who are hurting just need to express themselves.”

“When humans show us affection, it’s quite a complicated thing that involves expectations and judgments,” said Rachel Wright, who runs a pet therapy program. “But with a dog, it’s a very uncomplicated, nonchallenging interaction with no consequences. And if you’ve been through a hard time, it’s lovely to have that.”

Read it.

(Photo: Associated Press)