March 10, 2023
Flossy the Trauma Dog at the State Board of Pardons and Paroles
Flossy the trauma dog, and Handler Karin Ho, Rita Crapps, and Geoff Rohrs, of the South Carolina Department of Corrections Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Program, stopped by the State Board of Pardons and Paroles. In South Carolina, CISM provides personnel to support prison staff who have experienced trauma. Flossy is a trauma dog that helps provide that support, says Ho, Flossy’s handler. Flossy is trained to understand stress and trauma in a person and then act accordingly and provide comfort to that person.
Parole Board Vice Chair Jacqueline Bunn said victims benefit. "We are always looking for ways to better serve victims. The program that South Carolina has developed with its canine is a great example of how services might be enhanced in our state. It was time well spent to learn more about Flossy and the value added she brings to victims and staff alike."
Georgia Parole Board Executive Director Chris Barnett said he’s interested in exploring the possibility of a similar program for the agency that could also be utilized by partner agencies. “Flossy is amazing, as are the CISM staff! Employee health and well-being following a critical incident Is extremely important and we found today how Flossy is a key part of providing necessary treatment for staff and victims,” said Barnett.