Learning to Heal through Canids

We know that PTSD is a condition that many of our veterans face from the experiences they have while fighting for our freedoms. Our programs aim to help them as an additional support with their individual therapy they are receiving.

Our Program aims to help them by:

Providing emotional support:

Interacting with canids, like wolves and foxes, can provide comfort and a sense of calm for veterans with PTSD.

Reducing anxiety and stress:

Spending time with canids, like wolves and foxes, has been shown to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and reduce anxiety.

Improving social skills:

Interacting with canids, like wolves and foxes, can help veterans with PTSD improve their social skills and build relationships with others.

Encouraging physical activity:

Taking care of canids, like wolves and foxes, and participating in activities such as hiking and training can encourage veterans to engage in physical activity, which can be beneficial for their mental health.

Building self-esteem:

Accomplishing tasks and working with wolves can help veterans with PTSD build self-esteem and confidence.

Providing a sense of purpose:

Caring for canids, like wolves and foxes, can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment for veterans with PTSD.

Offering a non-judgmental relationship:

Canids, like wolves and foxes,do not judge or hold grudges, and their unconditional love and acceptance can provide a safe and non-judgmental relationship for veterans with PTSD.

*****It is important to note that while interacting with canids, like wolves and foxes,can be beneficial for veterans with PTSD, it should not be considered a substitute for professional therapy and medical treatment.

Learning how to live thru lessons wolves can teach us!

We know that wolves can teach us how to live a life of peace and harmony. The lessons they can teach us can help us be better fathers, partners, lovers, and a part of society. Our programs aim to help military and veterans learn how to integrate back into their family life and society by sharing the lessons we learn from wolves.

Pack behavior and social dynamics:

Wolves live and hunt in packs, which require cooperation and teamwork among members. The alpha wolf is the leader and makes decisions for the pack, while the rest follow and support.

Cooperation and teamwork:

Wolves hunt as a team, with each member having a specific role to play. They communicate effectively and coordinate their actions to take down larger prey.

Effective communication:

Wolves use vocalizations, body language, and scent marking to communicate with each other. This allows them to coordinate their actions and express their intentions to others.

Adaptation and survival skills:

Wolves are highly adaptable and can survive in a variety of habitats, from the Arctic tundra to the forests of North America. They are also skilled survivors, able to hunt and forage for food in difficult environments.

 Hunting and prey-predator relationships: Wolves are skilled hunters, able to take down prey much larger than themselves. They have a deep understanding of the prey-predator relationship and use strategy and cooperation to bring down their prey.

Parenting and nurturing skills:

Wolves are highly social animals and form strong bonds with their mate and offspring. They work together to care for and protect their young.

Respect for hierarchy and dominance:

Wolves have a clear social hierarchy, with the alpha wolf at the top. The rest of the pack respects this hierarchy, and conflicts are resolved through displays of dominance or submissiveness.

Importance of territory and resource management:

Wolves are territorial animals and fiercely protect their territory from intruders. They also understand the importance of conserving resources and only take what they need from their prey. 

Funding Request: Improving Social Bonding skills of kids with ASD

At The JABCECC, we believe in the transformative power of nature and animals to heal and educate. That's why we've created a unique program that brings children with autism together with foxes in a safe and supportive environment. Our goal is to help these children improve their social and communication skills, build confidence, and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for wildlife.

Foxes have a special way of captivating children's hearts and minds. With their playful personalities and curious natures, they help children with autism feel more comfortable and confident in social situations. Our program provides children with a unique opportunity to bond with foxes and learn more about these fascinating creatures in a safe and educational environment.

We are looking for collaborative partners as well as those interested in funding these programs.

With your help, we will be able to:

• Expand our program to reach more children with autism and provide more opportunities for these children to interact with foxes.

• Purchase supplies and equipment to support our therapy sessions, such as toys, treats, and habitat improvements.

• Provide training and support for our fox ambassadors, including veterinary care and socialization.

• Fund research initiatives to better understand the impact of foxes on children with autism and to improve our program.

Your support will make a real difference in the lives of children with autism and their families, and we are deeply grateful for your generosity. Whether you choose to make a one-time donation or to become a monthly supporter, your contribution will help us to achieve our mission.

Thank you for considering our request. We look forward to working with you to help children with autism through the power of nature and wildlife.

Reading to Foxes Program

We have created a delightful story that children on the spectrum can share with our canids at the center. Through this story time, we aim to improve confidence and social bonding skills, as well as reading comprehension.

Let us know if you would like to support our Reads to Canids Programs.