Phone: 0413 513 807 | Email: kathryn@kgcreativetherapy.com.au
Muzzle follows Jake Rosser, played by the talented and tough Aaron Eckhart. He’s a war veteran who has PTSD and whose beloved canine companion Ace is killed at the start of the movie. They shared a genuine bond of safety, trust, understanding and mutual courage, which is very difficult to replicate.
Jake sees a therapist, as he struggles with anger, loneliness and addiction.
In my first Social Work placement, I worked in Corrective Services, in prisons, and was involved in anger management groups with male parolees. Watching this movie and its pertinent themes of PTSD, anxiety and the stoicism of male mental health, reminded of that time.
Similar to Channing Tatum’s ‘Dog’, we follow Jake’s reconnection with another canine Socks, who has her own trauma and hellish, inhuman experiences.
We explore the instinct and intuition that dogs inherently possess, and their indelible bond with the humans they partner with in the force.
We witness the energy, power, and focus that it takes for both canine and cop to navigate, share and follow through with, while on the job.
The essential nature of understanding how one’s tone of voice, body language, motivation and intent, and overall relationship with a dog is to how effective jobs are completed in this line of work.
Many of the clients I’ve worked with, and current clients are young men and adult men who struggle with anger and histories of aggression. Many of my clients have pets, in particular dogs.
I see firsthand how fierce the love and protection are between human and dog, and how bottled-up emotions can help be released by the presence and companionship of another being, who doesn’t speak the same language, but understands the human heart and need for unity nonetheless. We watch as Jake speaks to the dogs as if they are capable of humanly responding and communicating in this way.
We also watch as Jake connects with his intrigued neighbour Mia, and how she is a calming influence on him; which catalyses their initial attraction, ongoing desire, and romance which grows. Her mutual concern for Socks also develops throughout the movie, and we see the result at the end.
As Jake’s therapist says, ‘’human connection is crucial.’’ This is absolutely true for every one of us.
Even dogs can facilitate this human connection, which makes them ever worthy to be recipients of ‘life-changer’ top dog awards. 😊
Email: kathryn@kgcreativetherapy.com.au | Phone: 0413 513 807
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