TRIUMPH RETRIEVERS- Students have the opportunity to participate in our animal science program. Triumph prides it self on the canine and wild game program offered. The students have the opportunity to raise wild birds (pheasants) and then train registered Labradors to hunt. For most students this is the high light of their stay at Triumph. Studies have shown that spending time with a friendly dog, even for a short time, increases the amount of endorphins that are released into the body, and decreases the levels of the hormone Cortisol, which controls stress and arousal. Because many troubled teens are in a near constant state of emotional anxiety and/or stress, spending quality time with animals can help them feel calmer and provide motivation to apply to their own lives. The Students also have the opportunity to compete with their retriever, this is when they see all of the hard work pay off. It is gratifying and helps to build our Students self esteem. They know that they can help these dogst to make positive actions a habit, just like themselves in their own program.