Four paws, big heart: Therapy dog to support children at Oswego County CAC

In a quiet room at the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Oswego County, where children share stories no child should ever have to tell, a new kind of support is preparing to arrive—one with four paws, a wagging tail, and a heart full of comfort.

Thanks to a Health and Wellness Award from Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, the CAC is launching its Comfort Canine Program, an innovative initiative designed to provide emotional support to children and families navigating the trauma of abuse. The program will introduce a trained therapy dog into the center’s trauma-informed environment, offering comfort and grounding during forensic interviews, counseling sessions, and court preparation.

The CAC is the only agency in Oswego County that brings together trauma-informed mental health clinicians, child abuse-certified medical professionals, and victim advocates under one roof. Despite its comprehensive services, the emotional toll on children remains profound.

A new kind of support for survivors

“Children who come to us have experienced significant trauma—physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence,” says Carol Gazitano, LMFT, deputy director of the CAC. “Even with our best efforts to reduce the stress of the investigative process, these experiences can be retraumatizing. We’ve long known that therapy dogs can help reduce anxiety, encourage openness, and improve therapeutic outcomes. This program is a dream realized.”

Recent clinical research highlights just how powerful a therapy dog’s presence can be for children in high-stress situations. A study published in the March 2025 issue of JAMA Network Open found that children who spent time with therapy dogs in emergency departments experienced a 46% drop in anxiety—nearly double the reduction seen in children who didn’t.^[i] It’s a compelling reminder that, sometimes, healing begins with something as simple as the quiet reassurance of a loyal furry-headed companion nearby.

“As a licensed clinical social worker, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact that therapy animals can have on children coping with stress and trauma,” says Amy Houghton, LCSW, MA, clinical case management director at Excellus BCBS. “Dogs offer a unique form of emotional support that is non-judgmental, comforting and deeply grounding. Their presence alone assists in reducing physiological symptoms of stress while promoting feelings of safety and connection.”

For years, the CAC explored ways to integrate a therapy dog into its services but faced logistical and financial barriers. The breakthrough came when the team considered a new model: having the therapy dog belong to a trained CAC employee. This approach ensures the dog is always handled by someone familiar with the sensitive nature of the work, preserving confidentiality and minimizing disruption.

The dog behind the mission

Carol’s own chocolate Labrador, Chip, now three years old, emerged as the ideal candidate.

“Even as a puppy, he was incredibly well-mannered, loving, and patient—especially with energetic and unpredictable children,” Carol shared. “He’s playful, calming, and deeply intuitive. I’m currently working with White Star Dog Training, in Hinkley, NY, to complete his certification so he can begin supporting our clients.”

The Comfort Canine Program aligns with Excellus BCBS’ commitment to addressing Social Determinants of Health, particularly those linked to adverse outcomes such as trauma and mental health challenges.

“We are proud to support the Child Advocacy Center of Oswego County in its mission to provide trauma-informed care,” says Mark Muthumbi, Excellus BCBS’ Central New York regional president. “Programs like the Comfort Canine initiative reflect the kind of innovative, compassionate care that makes a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Supporting mental health and emotional resilience is essential to building healthier communities.”

A grateful step forward

Once training is complete, the CAC will formally introduce the therapy dog to the community through its website, social media channels, and printed outreach materials. The dog will be available on-site as appropriate, primarily to support children and their caregivers during moments of heightened emotional distress.

“This is more than just a program—it’s a new layer of healing,” Carol said. “We’re incredibly grateful to Excellus for helping us bring this vision to life. Our hope is that this dog will be a source of comfort, grounding, and joy for the children we serve during their most difficult moments.”

Learn more about the CAC of Oswego County and their local services and programs. For more information about Excellus BCBS' Health and Wellness Awards and other community investment opportunities, visit ExcellusBCBS.com/community.

Contact:
Edward Byrnes Edward.Byrnes@Excellus.com