Spreading Love One Wag at a Time

At the Family House, we understand that healing extends beyond medicine. It’s the warmth of a welcoming space, the kindness of volunteers, and sometimes, a few wet noses. That’s why, five days a week, our dedicated therapy dog volunteers share their time and their beloved dogs, spreading love, joy, and comfort.

For many of our guests who are away from home and facing stressful health challenges, these therapy dogs offer more than a temporary distraction—they provide emotional and physical relief. Studies have shown that interacting with dogs can reduce stress and anxiety by lowering the stress hormone cortisol and releasing feel-good hormones like oxytocin. Simply petting a dog has been proven to lower blood pressure and heart rate. With each visit, guests feel supported and uplifted.

None of this would be possible without the dedicated volunteer handlers who undergo extensive training and certification to prepare for their roles. These individuals, alongside their four-legged friends, are committed to creating moments of joy and bringing a sense of normalcy to our guests. Their generosity of time and spirit reflects the values we hold dear at the Family House: hospitality, compassion, and support.

“My Goldendoodle, Bailey, and I became a registered pet therapy team through Pet Partners after the benefit I saw in my counseling practice with him as my assistant. After experiencing the warm response my clients had to Bailey, I wanted to share his talents with the community. We love visiting the SECU Family House and meeting so many wonderful people who are staying here. Bailey takes his position, waiting to receive attention, and there is nothing like seeing the smiles and hearing stories from guests. Sometimes, guests will sit on the floor and give him a hug or belly rub! We hope to make their day a little bit brighter and share the love and comfort that animals do so naturally.”

— Heidi Birkner & her therapy dog, Bailey

Our therapy dogs’ wagging tails, warm snuggles, and loving energy contribute to the Family House’s healing environment. We are deeply grateful for the volunteers who make these visits possible and for the difference they make in the lives of patients and caregivers every week.