In an unprecedented event, Yucatán implements dog-assisted therapy in public schools as part of the “Allies for Life” campaign. This innovative program, developed by SEGEY, seeks to promote the psychological, cognitive, and psychomotor well-being of Secondary and Higher Secondary students through interaction with dogs.
The Secretary of Education, Juan Balam Várguez, highlighted that this project’s main goal is to prevent problems such as suicide, depression, and anxiety, in addition to strengthening emotional ties and communication. These actions are aligned with the Governor’s plans to promote comprehensive training and a more empathetic society.
According to specialists, this dog-assisted therapy not only improves emotional and physical health but also strengthens learning in the classroom. Mónica Bargas Caporali, General Coordinator of Socio-Emotional Skills at SEGEY, highlighted that this program also promotes a culture of animal and environmental care in school communities.
The program started at the General Secondary School Number 4 “José Vasconcelos”, where the conference “Dog-assisted therapy as a Resilient Factor in Neurodivergence” was given.
The talk, given by experts in psychology and ethology, involved students in strengthening the human-animal bond.
This therapy will be gradually replicated in more schools in Mérida and the interior of the state. This innovative approach not only benefits students but also encourages respect and care for animals, promoting a more empathetic and conscious culture.
TYT Newsroom
