OIDA International Journal of Sustainable Development
Open-access peer-reviewed journal
https://doi.org/10.64211/oidaijsd190718
Ukraine’s Experience in Implementing Canine-Assisted Therapy for the Resilience of Vulnerable Populations
Oksana Kravchenko 1*, Oleksandr Safin 2, Nataliia Kolіada 1, Nataliia Levchenko 1, Nataliia Polishchuk 3, Oleksandr Kobets 4, Irina Fedosenko 5, Nataliia Dichek 6
1 Department of Social Pedagogy, Social Work and Counselling, Uman National University, Uman, Ukraine.
2 Psychology Department, Uman National University, Uman, Ukraine.
3 Department of Physical Culture, Sports and Teaching Methods, Berdyansk State Pedagogical University, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine.
4 Department of Psychology and Pedagogy, Odesa State University of Internal Affairs, Odesa, Ukraine.
5 Central Kennel Club, Society for the Promotion of Defense of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.
6 Education Institute of Pedagogy of the National Academy of Educational Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.
* Corresponding author: oksolkravchenko@ukr.net
Volume 19, Issue 07, Pg. 237-252, 2026.
Abstract: This study examines Ukraine’s experience implementing canine-assisted therapy (canistherapy) for vulnerable populations amid war and large-scale social disruption. The research aims to systematize institutional and community-based practices supporting military personnel, veterans, family members of fallen defenders, internally displaced persons, children with disabilities, and other war-affected groups. A qualitative research design was employed, using content analysis of statutory documents, official websites, social media materials, and public reports, as well as semi-structured interviews with Ukrainian canine-assisted therapy practitioners. Case studies from municipal rehabilitation centers, veteran support hubs, and community initiatives were analyzed to identify organizational models, therapeutic formats, and measurable outcomes. The findings demonstrate a transition from volunteer-based activities to structured, multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs integrated into healthcare, education, and social support systems. Measurable outcomes include reductions in anxiety levels, improvements in emotional regulation, enhanced social interaction, increased adaptive functioning, and strengthened motivation for rehabilitation. In post-deoccupation contexts, canine-assisted therapy contributed not only to psychological stabilization but also to rebuilding social trust and community resilience. At the same time, the rapid expansion of practice highlights the need for regulatory development, including formal recognition of the profession of canine-assisted therapist, standardized certification and licensing procedures, and unified national training requirements. The Ukrainian experience suggests that canine-assisted therapy represents a promising socio-psychological rehabilitation tool in wartime and post-war recovery contexts. Further longitudinal research and policy-level institutionalization are required to ensure sustainability, quality control, and broader national implementation.
Keywords: canine-assisted therapy; vulnerable populations; war-related trauma; social and psychosocial rehabilitation; veterans; community resilience
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