Therapy Dogs Join in The Fun For a Para-athletic Competition in Kyiv

This Royal Poodle, Dara, was trained as a therapy dog. She’s been helping patients with disabilities for almost six years. Dara’s daughter Veda has been trained to work with disabled children. Research indicates that animal-assisted therapy greatly benefits children with autism spectrum disorder or other disabilities.

Pet therapy isn’t just for specially trained dogs. Some house pets can also handle the task as well. 16-year Mykyta brought his best friend to compete. Mykyta’s entire family came out to show their support.

Twins Anya and Maria are inseparable. They came to this competitions together. Their mother Antonina jokes that the family’s Yorkshire Terrier is almost like their sibling. Despite her small size, Yasya can stand up for both herself and her sisters.

After two hours of competitions, everyone left feeling like a winner. The organizers say the competition’s main aim is to promote diversity and help everyone feel like a real champ.