Abkhazia Launches Canine Therapy for Children with Speech Disorders

SUKHUM / AQW'A ―  A new therapeutic method using specially trained dogs has been introduced in Abkhazia to assist children with speech impairments. The initiative is being led by Saida Otyrba, head of the animal welfare foundation Bagira and the Topa dog shelter.

Otyrba, who recently completed a certified course in canine therapy, has begun working with a one-and-a-half-year-old Central Asian Shepherd named Bahar. Early results, she says, have been highly encouraging.

The first child to take part in the programme was an eight-year-old girl from the Gagra district who had previously been non-verbal and displayed aggressive behaviour towards animals. After two weeks of interaction with Bahar, she began calling the dog by name, forming simple sentences, and asking questions.

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“The girl has grown very attached to him and constantly asks about him. She has already learned colours, started using a pen, and enjoys colouring pictures. We also go for walks by the river together—she holds Bahar on the lead, and during the summer they even swam together,” Otyrba explained.

Following this success, another child with speech difficulties has already joined the sessions, and four additional families from Sochi have reached out seeking similar support.

The therapy sessions are currently being held in the village of Psou in the Gagra district, where Otyrba manages a shelter for stray dogs. She noted that while the current premises are not ideal for such activities, plans are underway to build a dedicated modular facility. Funding for the project has already been secured.