After the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, on February 14, 2018, therapy dogs played a vital role in helping students, teachers, and the entire community heal from the trauma. These specially trained dogs were deployed immediately following the tragedy and continued to provide comfort and emotional support in the weeks, months, and even years that followed.
Immediate Response: Comfort and Emotional Support
In the days following the shooting, therapy dogs were brought to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School to help students and faculty cope with the overwhelming grief and anxiety caused by the tragedy. The dogs provided an immediate sense of calm and comfort to those struggling with shock and loss. Many of the students and teachers found it easier to express their emotions when interacting with the dogs, as they offered a nonjudgmental and soothing presence during an incredibly difficult time.
Long-Term Support in Schools and the Community
Therapy dogs became an integral part of the healing process at the school and in the Parkland community. Organizations such as Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD), Canine Assisted Therapy (C.A.T.) and the Humane Society of Broward County sent therapy dog teams to visit students in classrooms, common areas, and counseling sessions. These visits helped students manage stress and anxiety, providing a source of comfort during the challenging return to school.
In addition to supporting students, therapy dogs were present at various community events, memorials, and gatherings, where they helped grieving families and first responders process the emotional weight of the tragedy. The dogs helped create a sense of normalcy and support, giving survivors and community members a way to feel connected and less alone in their grief.
The Presence of Therapy Dogs in Court and Trauma Counseling
As legal proceedings related to the shooting unfolded, therapy dogs were also brought into courtrooms to help victims, witnesses, and families feel more at ease when discussing the traumatic events. Therapy dogs have been shown to reduce stress and increase feelings of security, particularly in legal settings where recalling painful memories can be distressing.
Counseling centers and therapy sessions in Parkland and surrounding areas incorporated therapy dogs into trauma-focused programs. Students who struggled to talk about their experiences often found comfort in interacting with the dogs, allowing them to express their emotions more freely.
A Lasting Impact on Mental Health and Resilience
Even years after the tragedy, therapy dogs continued to be a source of healing for survivors and the Parkland community. Schools, therapy programs, and mental health initiatives have continued to use therapy dogs as a tool for emotional support, stress reduction, and trauma recovery.
The impact of these therapy dogs on the survivors of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting highlights the incredible power of the human-animal bond. Their presence provided comfort, stability, and hope during one of the darkest times in the community’s history, showing just how valuable therapy dogs can be in times of crisis and healing.