(Posted 2024 January)
The Department of Family Services’ Facility dog, Rylynn, hosted a party and invited several of her furry friends from Canine Companions® along with their handlers! The guests of honor were older youth in Fairfax County Foster Care.
“We felt that this collaboration would be a valuable opportunity for youth who have experienced trauma to receive some of the unconditional love and support only a dog can provide,” said Fostering Futures Unit Supervisor Monique White.
Despite a small turnout, Rylynn and the other organizers considered the event a success. In addition to receiving lots of cuddles and snuggles from these loving pups, participants were able to learn about puppy raising, the role of service and facility dogs, and even play with puppies!
The Department of Family Services is very grateful to all the volunteers with Canine Companions® who supported the event and made it such a special day. Everyone involved is open to collaborating again in the future.
Rylynn has become something of a community ambassador for DFS and brings good cheer with her wherever she goes. She and her handler, Samantha Carrico, can often be found in court providing support during children’s testimony, leading mandatory reporter training, or in the schools supporting children through the Body Safety program.
Learn more about Rylynn and her work with DFS.
This article posting is part of the Foster Family News monthly newsletter designed to keep foster parents informed about all the new and notable happenings in Fairfax County.
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