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.