Switzerland’s Saint Bernards, once renowned worldwide for their heroic alpine rescues, have found a new social role. According to Reuters, these noble canines are becoming support dogs for vulnerable individuals, thanks to the Barry Foundation. In these new roles, the gentle giants are set to provide therapeutic and educational support to those in need.
Swiss canine symbols prepare for a new heroic mission
The Barry Foundation is a nonprofit organization that assumed responsibility for the breed in 2005, by taking over from Switzerland’s oldest Saint Bernard kennels in the Swiss Alps. Andrea Zollinger, spokesperson for the foundation, emphasized the Saint Bernard’s evolving role while touring the breed’s kennels in Martigny, a city near the borders of Italy and France.
In Andrea’s words, “The Saint Bernard today is a breed that works on the social front.” Truly, these precious dogs can adjust well to a variety of settings. As a result, Switzerland’s Saint Bernards are successfully embracing their social role in hospitals and nursing homes with senior citizens.
They offer their unique support to people undergoing therapy, disabled individuals, and those with disorders on the autism spectrum. Additionally, the dogs assist medical professionals in psychosomatic and psychosocial rehabilitation efforts. In doing so, they have an invaluable impact on various healthcare and educational environments. As per Countryman, the dogs have even worked wonders while helping children and prisoners, alike.
Furthermore, the pups actively engage in approximately 600 missions annually across Switzerland, demonstrating their dedication to their new roles. Nowadays, visitors can witness their remarkable work at Barryland. This theme park contains a museum and facilities dedicated to these remarkable dogs.
Switzerland’s Saint Bernards continue their ancestors’ noble work
Barryland owes its name to Barry I. This legendary Saint Bernard joined history’s other canine heroes after saving over 40 lives on the perilous Great Saint Bernard Pass in the early 2000s. Barry I’s lineage still thrives, in seven puppies — five females and two males — who were born to one of the dogs under the Barry Foundation’s care.
Barry I resided at a hospice established by 11th-century monks that had previously housed others of his kind. Here, dogs of this sturdy breed assisted pilgrims and travelers in navigating the perilous route across the Alps. Accounts by travelers — and Napoleon’s soldiers — highlighted the breed’s legendary loyalty, resilience, and exceptional skills.
Such stories cemented this canine’s reputation as a trusty companion animal, especially during times of rescue. It is hardly a surprise, then, that the Saint Bernard continues to be a powerful symbol of Switzerland. It retains its glory even in an age where smaller dogs have become a mainstay of modern alpine rescues due to the latter’s suitability for helicopter transport.
Andrea Zollinger aptly described their significance, stating, “It’s a very strong symbol of Switzerland, and many people are committed to preserving this breed according to its standards.” As such, while the Saint Bernard’s role has changed, its popularity continues to endure among the Swiss populace. This devoted doggo’s legacy steadfastly thrives, both as a symbol of rescue and as a beacon of empathy for those in need.
