If you’ve visited Match Foster Care, chances are you’ve already met Lennie, our cockapoo and therapy dog in training. Lennie spends most days in the office, and he’s quickly become an important part of what makes Match feel like home.
From greeting visitors with a wagging tail to offering cuddles during difficult moments, Lennie plays a vital role in helping children (and adults!) feel calm, comforted, and welcome.
Therapeutic Support with Lenny
Therapy dogs like Lennie are known for their incredible ability to help people manage stress and regulate emotions. For children, especially those who may be feeling anxious or upset, a therapy dog can provide a sense of safety and reassurance. Lennie has already proven how valuable he is in situations where children need extra support.
For example, after leaving family time with their parents—a moment that can be emotionally challenging for many foster children—Lennie has been there to offer a cuddle or simply sit by their side. His calming presence helps children process their feelings in a way that words often can’t. Whether it’s stroking his soft fur or watching his playful antics, spending time with Lennie provides a distraction from difficult emotions and a chance to feel more grounded.
Lennie doesn’t just support the children. He makes the office a more welcoming and homely space for everyone who visits. From staff to foster parents, Lennie has a way of brightening the day (especially if you’re cooking sausages for lunch—he’s particularly enthusiastic about those!).
The Healing Power of a Therapy Dog
Lennie ’s role in therapy sessions extends beyond mere companionship. Interacting with a therapy dog like Lennie can offer numerous psychological benefits. For instance:
Reducing Anxiety and Stress
Petting and playing with Lennie can reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, while increasing the production of serotonin, a feel-good chemical in the brain. This helps children feel more relaxed and at ease during therapy sessions.
Building Trust and Empathy
Developing a bond with Lennie can help children learn to trust and form healthy relationships. This bond can be particularly beneficial for children who have difficulty connecting with others due to past trauma.
Encouraging Communication
Lennie‘s presence can make therapy sessions feel less formal and intimidating, encouraging children to communicate more freely. The act of talking to or about Lennie can serve as a bridge to more difficult topics.
Providing Comfort and Companionship
Simply having Lennie nearby can offer immense comfort to children, providing a sense of stability and unconditional love.
Match Foster Care’s Commitment to Excellence
At Match, we’re always looking for innovative ways to make children feel more comfortable and supported. Lennie is a big part of that effort, and while he’s still in training, his impact is already undeniable. Whether he’s helping a child through a tough moment or just bringing a smile to someone’s face, Lennie embodies our commitment to finding creative, compassionate ways to care for the children and families we work with. Because at Match, we believe comfort comes in many forms—even a furry, four-legged one!
The Importance of Fostering and How You Can Help
Fostering provides children with a stable, loving home environment that can significantly impact their development and well-being. It’s a vital service that supports children who are unable to live with their birth families for various reasons. Our outstanding services ensure that these children receive the care, attention, and love they need to thrive.
If you’ve ever considered becoming a foster parent, now is the perfect time to take that step. By opening your home and heart, you can make a profound difference in a child’s life. We offer comprehensive training and ongoing support to help you succeed in this rewarding role.
Visit our website to learn more about the fostering process and how you can get involved. Whether you’re ready to start your fostering journey or simply want more information, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
