news 7 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda's 'Comfort Dogs' Documentary Takes Top Prize at Mexico Animal Festival
A 30-minute film highlighting therapy dogs aiding LRA war survivors in northern Uganda has won the most inspiring short film award at the Fauna Tepoztlan festival in Mexico. It showcases mutual healing between street-rescued dogs from Gulu and trauma victims like Francis, Lucy, and Jennifer. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-s-dog-therapy-documentary-wins-award-in-mexico-5415312
A powerful 30-minute documentary, ‘The Comfort Dogs of Uganda’, has clinched the top award for the most inspiring short film at the Fauna Tepoztlan animal festival in Mexico. Produced by Big Fix Uganda, the film explores how therapy dogs assist survivors of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency in northern Uganda to recover from deep-seated trauma.
The story centers on three dogs—Sadik, Tommy, and Ogen—rescued from Gulu City’s streets and trained to support two men and a woman who endured violence. Victims Francis, Lucy, and Jennifer, battling PTSD and social stigma, find solace in these animals, who are also healing from abandonment and abuse.
Premiering in Gulu on February 21, 2026, the film drew emotional responses from attendees, including the featured survivors and their dogs, underscoring their profound bond. Francis Okello Oloya, manager of the Comfort Dogs Project, emphasized dogs’ unique role: “Humans trust dogs with painful stories because they keep secrets and offer unwavering friendship.”
In Acholi culture, dogs serve hunting, security, and companionship needs. With scarce mental health services and rising costs, LRA survivors increasingly turn to therapy dogs for support. The documentary is set for screenings in London, Australia, and Mexico soon.
Australian producer Richard Wainwright praised Big Fix Uganda’s work: “It’s heart-warming to see recognition for their dedication to both dogs and war survivors.”
Source: Daily Monitor