Human-Animal Bond in Colorado - HABIC Volunteer Stories

Representing the best qualities of his breed, “Tig” absolutely loves bringing joy to people of all ages while working as a therapy dog.

After being left at a shelter in Los Angeles, Winston was brought to Colorado by Pat Athey to begin a new life as a therapy animal.

Michael Beck-Gifford has a passion for working in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) settings and making a difference in the lives of children and families in Fort Collins.

Following a career in nursing, Kathy McNaught and her dog Winnie began volunteering with HABIC in 2017 to support individuals and families in their local community.

A rescue cat with a special personality and the love of his new family offers support as a therapy animal for Colorado communities.

Summer, a Golden Retriever, loves to give comfort to others and immediately encourages people to pet her when she’s working as a therapy dog.

“HABIC is a worthwhile program which allows one to give back to the community and improve the lives of others,” said Boyles.

Jacqueline Rusho and her rescued Great Pyrenees dog Sophie developed a special bond with senior residents of long-term care facilities.

It takes a very special HABIC team to volunteer to work in a hospice setting. One such team is Susie Davis and her Golden Retriever, Gracie.

Kathleen Huggins and her dog Jimmy volunteer at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Denver Hospice. Jimmy is a rescue from Denver Dumb Friends League who now excels in his two jobs as a therapy dog.

Anndevoy Ryan and her dog Fingal received their HABIC certification and began working at Green House Homes at Mirasol, a skilled nursing care facility, in Loveland, Colorado.

CSU student Emily Oltmanns and her service-trained dog Jackson volunteer with HABIC. Life as a therapy dog is the perfect job for Jackson.