Therapy Dogs make a PAWS-ative impact
Who We Are and What We Do
We are a non-profit with handler/dog teams located in the Mahoning Valley. Our members visit special needs centers, schools, juvenile detention centers, nursing homes, and other venues. Our members have volunteered with the local county courts, children services and attend crisis calls. We’re a family of devoted volunteers willing to share our affectionate canines by providing our community with
therapy dog support for their well-being.
Coming together from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences, our skilled team of handlers are the backbone of P.A.W.S. Therapy Team. Their ideas help shape the direction and mission of our organization as it continues to develop.
Our Mission
With the help of our exceptional animal companions, we seek to
Provide Affection, Well-being and Support
to all those in need.
Our Vision
Our goal for the future is to allow
P.A.W.S. Therapy Team to become
recognized as an integral part of
the physical, emotional, and
mental well-being of
members of our community.
Therapeutic Visits
Researchers and experts agree that pets excel as therapeutic agents and that dogs are an antidote to depression. Studies have shown a decrease in both blood pressure and stress levels during therapy dog visits. A visit from one of our therapy dog teams can break the daily routine, increase overall emotional well-being, and stimulate the mind in dramatic ways. Our certified therapy dogs offer so many wonderful benefits to people of all ages such as:
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Bringing joy and laughter, even if for a short time
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Taking a person’s mind off of personal problems, aches, pains and worries
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Getting people to share their stories, emotions, and rekindling warm memories of their pets
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Giving a chance for people to communicate with others
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Lowering stress levels and blood pressure
Why Our Dogs Are Special
Every dog who wears the special P.A.W.S vest has one thing in common, extensive special training. Each dog must pass the AKC-approved Good Canine Citizenship test and undergo a two-day training and testing.
