Caregiver Experiences of an Integrated Trauma-Informed Support Approach for Rescued Dogs
Abstract: This study explores caregiver experiences of integrated trauma-informed support for rescued dogs. The approved proposal envisaged a retrospective qualitative multiple-case study with approximately 10-15 adult caregivers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted without recording for privacy; the researcher retained private notes. The reported analysis uses thirteen questionnaire responses because interview notes were not available for this analysis. Optional written accounts underwent descriptive content analysis, supported by counts and ordinal summaries. Accounts described safety, predictability, learning, trust, emotional relief and spiritual meaning. Ten respondents reported substantial and three moderate overall dog improvement; twelve reported substantial and one moderate caregiver benefit. Median confidence increased from 2 to 5 and overwhelm decreased from 5 to 2 on recalled five-category ratings. One dog-related item included a less favourable individual rating. Nine respondents attributed substantial and one complete contributions to other factors. Private interview notes were not coded or used for quotations or corroboration. Retrospective recall, sparse written accounts, practitioner involvement, concurrent care and ambiguous dog-case boundaries limit interpretation. Findings describe perceived experience and do not establish treatment effectiveness or a Reiki-specific mechanism.
Keywords: rescued dogs; caregiver experience; trauma-informed support; qualitative accounts; Reiki
How to Cite?: Sonali Bhar, "Caregiver Experiences of an Integrated Trauma-Informed Support Approach for Rescued Dogs", Volume 15 Issue 10, October 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1185-1188, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR261018122608, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR261018122608