Paw Pals
Bringing Joy and Comfort to Eastern LaSalle County
Our Paw Pals program introduces therapy dogs to schools, creating a supportive and nurturing environment for students. These furry friends offer comfort, companionship, and stress relief, helping children build confidence and improve their educational experience.
The Paw Pals program brings the joy and comfort of therapy dogs to schools across Eastern LaSalle County. Our specially trained therapy dogs, along with their handlers, create a warm and supportive environment for students, fostering a sense of companionship and emotional well-being.
Take a peek behind the scenes of United Way of Eastern LaSalle County’s Paw Pals program!
Witness the incredible impact this program makes in our community. A special thank you to Tyler Amm, Brenda Donahue, and Marseilles Elementary School District.
More than a Mascot
The Paw Pals program brings the joy and comfort of therapy dogs to schools across Eastern LaSalle County.
Our specially trained therapy dogs, along with their handlers, create a warm and supportive environment for students, fostering a sense of companionship and emotional well-being.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Interactions with therapy dogs have been shown to lower stress levels and reduce anxiety, creating a more relaxed and positive atmosphere for students.
Enhanced Emotional Well-being
The companionship of therapy dogs promotes emotional well-being, providing comfort and support during challenging times.
Increased social interaction
Paw Pals encourage social interaction among students, teachers and staff, and families, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.
Non-judgmental Companionship
Therapy dogs offer non-judgmental companionship, creating a safe space where students feel accepted and valued.
11
Number of Paw Pals Therapy Dogs currently serving our community
4,600
Students have access to specially-trained facility therapy dogs this year
18-24
Months of training for Paw Pals puppies to become certified facility therapy dogs
$5,500
Cost to provide a Paw Pals therapy dog to a local school
Get Involved!
Whether you’re a dog lover interested in providing financial support for a therapy dog or a school looking to bring the healing power of Paw Pals to your students, there are various ways to get involved. Your support ensures that more children in Eastern LaSalle County can experience the positive impact of our Paw Pals.