A child's wounds happen in relationship. It is ONLY relationship that can sooth, calm, heal. A child never heals in isolation.

A pet can go a long way towards helping a child connect and feel like someone is there for them. A child projects their hurts, needs, and desire for relationship onto their pet. Research shows that petting a soft animal is calming for an anxious person and can make a significant impact. The over-all goal is to repair the child's ability and willingness to love, connect and trust. That repair process is helped along when a child is provided a pet she can bond with, take good care of, and be in a lasting relationship with. This therapeutic tool is being used in treatment centers in the USA as well.  

Does the pet have to be a dog? Of course not. But it must be an animal the child loves and accepts into their heart.