The Paw Pals program places facility therapy dogs in local area schools. 4,500 students in 10 local schools benefit from the Paw Pals Program. These specially trained dogs provide social, cognitive, and mental health benefits to students and staff alike. Their presence fosters a sense of emotional well-being, creating a ripple effect that positively influences the overall school community. Thanks to generous supporters like you, these dogs, and Rookie, the Ottawa Police Department therapy dog, are fully funded by United Way of Eastern LaSalle County.
Reaching our goal would allow us to expand the presence of therapy dogs to more local schools. The United Way ELC not only funds the acquisition of the dogs but also covers the expenses associated with two years of comprehensive training and veterinary care.
