A local trauma support dog program is receiving funding from the Rotary Club of North Bay.
Officials say the program relies 100% on fundraising, with Chewie, a specially bred and highly trained trauma canine, supporting people who are agitated or anxious, or in crisis.
They add he reduces fear/anxiety in children, persons with disabilities and students, helps reduce blood pressure and anxiety for victims and is a goodwill ambassador for victim services and local police.
“When the club was approached by Victim Services, we did not hesitate to step in,” says Grace Doiron, Rotary Club of North Bay President. “Our club’s main focus continues to be supporting children and youth with special needs, and that now includes those who have been traumatized”.
The Rotary Club is providing $5,000 annually, mostly for food supplies and veterinarian bills.
On Monday, Rotary members were introduced to Chewie, along with K9 Handler Gillian MacIntosh with Victim Services of Nipissing and Constable Doug MacIntosh, North Bay Police Service.
