Animal assisted therapy took place in the Karaganda colony

Psychologists of "Institution 33" of the State Penitentiary Service of the Karaganda Region and the Ulytau Region held an unusual event - pet therapy aimed at helping and relieving the emotional stress of convicts. This method, based on the interaction of humans with animals, has proven its effectiveness in working with people experiencing psychological and emotional difficulties.
Pet therapy is a method of correctional work that involves animals. Most often, dogs, cats, horses or even small rodents are used for such programs. Interaction with animals helps reduce stress levels, develop communication skills, improve emotional state and increase trust in others.
Therapy in the institution was carried out using cats and dogs. Psychologists noted positive changes in the participants. The level of aggression and anxiety has noticeably decreased, many have become more open to communication. Animals helped create an atmosphere of trust, which contributed to deeper interaction with psychologists. In addition, the convicts developed a sense of responsibility and empathy, because animals require care, attention and a friendly attitude. These qualities are especially important for reintegration into society after serving a sentence. "Pet therapy is not only an innovative approach in psychological work, but also an important step in the humanization of the penal system. Interaction with animals allows convicts to feel like part of society, which in the future can help them more successfully adapt to life outside the institution," shared the deputy head of the institution, Lieutenant Colonel of Justice Bakhytzhan Akhmetov.