Madison720web

Healing
hands
& Pa s
Mistie Desper
Animals have a way of instantly putting us
at ease. Most of us can recall a fond memory
of a pet that brought us joy and happiness.
One local woman has turned this gift of
animals into an integral part of recovery
and rehabilitation efforts for local patients.
Katrinna Miller, executive director of
Mississippi Therapy Canines, created this
extraordinary program in 2019. The
non-profit assists local patients with healing
and recovery. They also work closely with
recipients eligible for service dogs and so
much more. Katrinna’s extensive variety of
animals aid in crisis and disaster response,
as well. She explains, “We are currently
assisting many assault victims, veterans,
military frontline workers and more
through animal assisted therapy.”
From knowing, firsthand, the strength
and comfort that an animal can bring
someone, Katrinna was led to create the
canine therapy program to help others.
Losing her mother at a young age and
growing up in a physically and emotionally
abusive situation at the hands of her adoptive
father, she overcame her traumatic past with
the help of her animals. She admitted her
animals helped her in her darkest times as
she clung to them for daily strength. Years
later, she would finally be able to get out of
her dangerous situation with the intuitive
help of her school counselor and school
nurse who sensed something was wrong.
While her love for animals continued to
grow, she credits having them and her two
human “heroes” for changing the course of
her life which, in turn, opened her heart to
a desire for helping others.
Katrinna has become an incredibly
inspiring and positive mentor in the
community as she strives to help others in
need overcome a variety of experiences with
the help of her highly trained service animals.
The program officially began in 2008
under a different name with her vision,
and her two amazing Australian Shepherds
and one rescue canine. From there, it has
grown to 23 animals that are on site, not to
mention the animals she trains for others
in the community.
Hometown MADISON • 37