Animal-Assisted Program Strengthens Social-Emotional Learning in Taos

Many young people in Taos have limited access to hands-on learning experiences that build social-emotional skills, confidence, and healthy relationships. To address this gap, a community partner working with both a humane organization and Taos Behavioral Health identified an opportunity to integrate animal-assisted learning into youth wellness programming and reached out to LOR with her idea. With support from LOR, Paws for Change—a new program focused on helping youth build empathy, emotional regulation, communication, and leadership skills—will launch three concurrent six-week cohorts serving approximately 45 youth already engaged with Taos Behavioral Health services. A certified animal trainer and an assistant trainer will lead 18 facilitated sessions incorporating experiential learning, mindfulness practices, humane education, and community service activities, helping participants build confidence, strengthen social and emotional skills, and support overall well-being.