Paws & Think is a great organization! They have so many great programs and go to so many different locations like schools, libraries, hospitals, nursings homes and so many more! I also love the youth canine program that I have volunteered with. They pair at risk youth with dogs from local shelters. The youth train the pups and learn responsibility and the pups get great training that makes them more adoptable in the community! Paws & Think is a wonderful non-profit that everyone who loves dogs would very much enjoy to be apart of!
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I am not only an employee of this amazing organization, but I also donate my time on top of my normal 9-5 commitment because this organization does so much for our community, both humans and canines, and I am so happy to be apart of it and help in any way that I can!
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Not only am I an employee of Paws & Think, but I am also a regular donor and volunteer because the mission of this organization is so powerful. I get to see lives touched everyday through the power of the human dog connection. Besides "working" as a therapy dog, I have the best job EVER!
Every volunteer opportunity I have completed with Paws & Think has been rewarding and fills my cup. I am grateful for all the work this organization does and am happy to be a volunteer!
I have been a volunteer for Paws & Think Inc. for 7 years and can't say enough wonderful things about the whole organization. They have done an amazing job with the therapy dog teams, from the training process to all of the programs they offer for volunteers to get out and spread cheer in the community. The staff is also wonderful to work with!
I can't say enough about Paws and Think, Inc. I have volunteered for them, served on the Board of Directors and worked for them in the past. When I moved away and became affiliated with another "pet therapy" organization, I learned first hand just how high the standards are at Paws and Think compared to other national organizations. Paws and Think evaluates human-dog teams every two years (international best practices), and they also examine community partnerships to assure everyone's needs can be met. The quality of their volunteers is excellent and the support for volunteers and community partners far exceeds that of other organizations.
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Paws & Think is probably the most outstanding organization in the field of Human-Animal Interventions (HAI). They are staffed by outstanding people, highly educated in the field. They support all national and International guidelines by organizations such as SHEA, the AVMA, and IAHAIO. Teams (Dog & Handler) evaluated for therapy work are well trained, evaluated every two years, and are provided continuing education in both HAI and their primary interest field. They were the first to bring Reading Education Assistance Dogs to central Indiana. I can't say enough positive things about the organization and all who serve it. Having volunteered for them was an incredible honor.
Paws and Think does great work in the Indianapolis and surrounding communities. Hospitals, schools, libraries, nursing facilities and businesses all enjoy making connections with amazing canine volunteers.
I have been a volunteer with Paws and Think for about 4 years. They do incredible work, from helping youth and shelter dogs through their Youth Canine program to dog therapy teams making stress relief visits at local businesses to Reading Education Assistance Dogs helping children improve their confidence in reading as well as their fluency. I am proud of the work being done and the small staff is incredible at what they do and work hard every day to help their community.
I’ve been involved with Paws& Think for over 9 years and happily served as a volunteer therapy dog handler, evaluator, and board member. This organization stays true to their mission and is run by the best, most committed, group of employees and volunteers! I am so proud of this organization and the positive difference they are making in our community!
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I will always be grateful for Paws & Think. With my bulldog Comet, I was able to visit hospitals, schools, libraries, and other venues - sharing the love that only comes from connecting with an animal. After Comet’s passing, I remain involved in the organization to continue supporting the Paws & Think mission. The volunteers and staff are incredible and so passionate about helping both dogs and people. As the organization continues to grow, more lives are impacted each year.
I am a Paws & Think volunteer with my dog Luciano. Paws & Think is a terrific organization for several reasons. I especially like it because they offer a wide variety of venues for handler teams to visit. Just this week, my dog & I will visit a hospital, memory care facility, grief counseling for children, and public library! I also appreciate the opportunities for ongoing training that Paws & Think provides. I recently attended an inservice on crisis response.
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As a volunteer for Paws & Think, I appreciate the variety of venues I can choose from for volunteering. I also value the extra training they offer for programs such as such as Paws to READ and Paws to Heal. I’ve experienced the joy that my dog and I receive and the joy that those we visit express from the human-dog connection.
Paws and Think is made up of staff and volunteers who deeply care about their community. Although the staff is small, they do an amazing job creating an above average experience for clients and volunteers alike.
As both a donor and a volunteer, I've been involved with Paws & Think for over 5 years! They're incredibly dedicated to the community they serve and are always looking to be effective stewards of donor dollars while also finding new and creative ways to meet community needs!
Have seen them help a friend's son during recovery from a spine injury. I have seen many posts on Facebook of them as they go through treatments and seeing the fuzzy friends in and out of the rehab hospital and the smiles on everyone's face really shows their presence helps everyone feel a little bit better.
Having been with Paws and Think for over 8 years, I have seen remarkable changes in patients during and after a dog therapy visit. My favorite being a patient, who I was told was non verbal, and unable to follow commands, changed after a visit from dog Rookie. The dog kept pushing his hand until the patient said "Big Dog". And by the time we left the room, the patients was able to follow direction, speak, and give the dog treats. All done because a dog cared.
I have been a volunteer for Paws & Think since 2017. I currently have three therapy dogs (Archie, Oakley, and Winston) who I take to visit hospitals, schools, nursing homes, libraries, and more. To see the smiles they bring to so many faces of individuals who are going through a difficult time is not only rewarding, but it proves that therapy dogs make a positive and huge impact on our community. In addition to the therapy dog work they provide, their Youth-Canine program is an absolutely amazing one. I am so passionate about this organization’s mission that I decided to join the Board.
Paws and Think core focus is to help those in need. This ranges from dogs, children and hospital patients. I can’t think of a better mission! What a great organization!
My dog Winnie and I ate a Therapy Team with Paws and Think. We visit patients at Riley Hospital For Children bi-weekly. Paws and Think provides training and opportunity to become trained Therapy Teams. Paws and Think participates with Therapy teams at Corporate Amazon, Allison’s. The Paws to Read program takes place at many Libraries and Elementary Schools throughout Indpls and surrounding counties. This is Winnie the Whippet.
Volunteering with Teddy Roosevelt, my mini Australian Shepherd, is treasured time!
With many venue options, I’m always able to find a location and time that works well for us.
In addition, Paws & Think offers an abundance of information on the website as well as helpful email updates.
I’m grateful to be involved with Paws & Think, nothing is better than spreading a little sunshine, one visit at a time!
Jax & I are a therapy team with Paws & Think. The organization is first class. Extremely dog focused and is a valued part of the community. The programs they offer are comprehensive and provide opportunities for unbelievable experiences for kids, adults, & the dogs too. Jax loves sitting in kids laps at the library as they read to her. I strongly encourage you to become a therapy team....it's very rewarding!
PAWS and Think partners with Brownsburg Public Library by providing 2 teams of wonderfully patient canine listeners and their equally wonderful and dedicated human handlers for our monthly PAWS to Read program. Young kids are able to strengthen their reading skills by spending one-on-one time reading to a therapy dog. The kids love picking out their favorite books to read to the dogs. BPL has hosted this monthly program for many years. It is SUCH a popular program and truly benefits our local community.
Paws and Think has been a valuable partner of the Westfield Washington Public Library for years, through the Paws to Read program. This popular program draws children of all ages -- primarily early readers who want to practice reading out loud to a friendly dog in a non-judging environment, but also to pre-readers who tell a story to the dog in their own words, and to more experienced readers who need to overcome a fear of dogs.
Paws to Read takes place throughout the year at our library, on a monthly basis -- twice monthly during our Summer Reading Program in June and July, when the demand is highest. We typically serve between 6 and 12 readers at each session.
My contact at Paws and Think (currently Shannon Gaughan-Kelly) has always been very responsive, and works hard to make sure we have enough volunteer teams to meet our needs. In these times, when reports show a significant decline in reading competencies in young children, it is more important than ever for libraries to offer programs such as Paws to Read, which both encourages a love of reading and helps to build solid skills.
A great organization that helped me get my dog started as a therapy dog who helped children with reading. We spent 7 years listening to children read to my dog and watching children enjoy reading!
This is a great program to help children with learning needs to feel safe and capable while experiencing the joy of being with a dog who cares for them just the way they are. Keep up the great work, we need programs like this for our kids.
I have a friend that became involved in this charity and saw how professional the organization is run. I also had an opportunity to volunteer at a training session which was a great experience. I enjoy hearing about the incredible programs that are offered to communities through Paws and Think Inc.
I know one of the volunteers and her amazing dog. She is very committed to the program and helping the children to feel confident in their reading and overall experience. It’s so important to continue to work with the children in a positive and caring way.
We are so luckily to have a Paws and Think pup that comes and works in our school! The kids love when she is at school, and the adults do also!
Paws and Think provides an invaluable service to our school. Visits with LuLu are often the only times some of our most reluctant readers enjoy reading.
We love volunteering with our girl and she loves her “job”! This organization serves so many people each week all over this area. You couldn’t ask for better people and sweet dogs. We serve at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital and at our local Elementary School. The kids all love her.
I have been a Paws and Think Youth-Canine Coach since 2017. I’ve had the opportunity to watch the human and dog connection. Here are some examples of what I have witnessed.
Some dogs start the program being very timid, but by the last day they have blossomed with self-confidence. Agility equipment is set up on the last day of the program and there are tunnels for the dogs to walk through. Many times, a dog is timid to walk into the tunnel. But with the teens continuous efforts of coaxing and luring with treats the dog successfully walks through the tunnel. Then the dog becomes comfortable with the tunnel and many times walks back through the tunnel on its own looking for the leftover treats. Often, the trainers are so overjoyed with their dog’s success that they will then connect another tunnel to the tunnel that the dog mastered to see if their dog will then master that.
Once, I coached a couple of girls that were first coached by someone else the first two days of the program. I asked each of them separately what was the best part of the program for them. The first girl told me that she learned that she didn’t have to fear all dogs. And when I asked the second girl the same question, she looked at me and said with a big smile, this is the first time that I have ever touched a dog.
When something outstanding happens during the program, I try to write a note of the event. Here is one of those notes:
This month I have been working with Reggie. We are told that he is 10 years old, owner surrendered and very anxious. I talked with his trainers about these facts, and we discussed the things that may be the cause of his anxiety. They both were very compassionate and understanding. On the first day Reggie was doing the Watch, Touch and Sit. On day 2 there was only one trainer. Reggie was more anxious, so his trainer mainly just walked him around. We talked about how not all dogs learn at the same rate and how sometimes it takes different methods to get the desired response. For instance: Reggie was close to doing a down but wasn’t doing it. But if you massage his jowls, he loved it so much, he laid down and rolled to his back and then laid down. His trainer said that he could relate. He said that in class that he wouldn’t try much and caused trouble. But when the class size decreased, he was able to pay attention and started learning. On day 3, both boys were training, and Reggie was so relaxed, doing well with commands and playing with a ball. I asked one of the trainers what occupation he wanted in his future. He said that he wasn’t sure, but he was told that he could do anything that he put his mind to. He did not know of the possibilities that he had. I was shocked! At the end of the session, Kim asked the kids to rotate around and experience training the other dogs. Reggie shut down. His anxiety returned. He refused to sit for other kids. Kim asked his trainers if they would return to Reggie. Within minutes, his anxiety left, and he was doing his commands. Kim and I talked with some of the other kids about Reggie’s behavior and they were very understanding. We heard some very empathetic responses.
Paws and Think does some incredible work! While we're not in the area they serve, as a therapy dog team, we inevitably came across this organization on social media. We love the different programs they've created to enhance therapy dog visits and get the most benefit out of them. We can personally attest to the value that brings, working with youth in our own community. Taking the time to design specific goal oriented programs really makes a difference. To support Paws and Think we donated copies of our children's book about our therapy dog work. They took the time to let us know the stories of the specific children our books went to, which was so heartwarming. We give them 5 stars and 5 paws too! Above and beyond! Christina and Buster
My dog, Jackson, and I are a therapy team for Paws and Think and we love it! This organization offers great training and support for the volunteers and there are so many great opportunities to make people smile!
They were such a great help getting me and my dog Finn certified as a therapy team! We love visiting hospitals and other venues to provide therapy and support for those in need. Every dog needs a fulfilling job. Paws and Think have provided a wonderful "job" for my dog.
I have volunteered with Paws and Think for 3-4 years with my mini schnauzer, Sadie. We have visited assisted living facilities, libraries and the Marion County Juvenile Center. You can see a person's whole demeanor change when they see the dogs. Such a worthwhile charity.
Hi. I have been so welcomed into Paws and Think Inc. even though I don't have my own dog know. The mission of the organization and the warm yet efficient way it is executed is impressive. I am so glad to be a volunteer with this organization!
I got involved with Paws and Think almost three years ago because I wanted to volunteer with my dog. They provide GREAT training for you and your dog to become a registered animal-assisted therapy team, and they have a great organization that helps connect you with venues all over the Indy area doing things you and your dog love best. My dog and I went on to become a R.E.A.D.-certified team to help struggling readers progress by “reading to the dog” weekly. We have volunteered at the library with readers as well, and in memory care units just providing comfort and engagement for residents. Dog/handler teams can work in crisis management, places of business doing stress breaks for employees, hospitals, child welfare, and many other speciality areas. During COVID, we have kept up our work with “through the window” visits at senior centers and dog parades, virtual reading with kids, and giving outside/masked stress breaks to our exhausted health care providers. Now we are getting back into organizations again, and the excitement with which we’re greeted is really a joy to see. Paws and Think does a great job of keeping volunteers connected, and they’re constantly educating us with new skills. It’s a terrific group doing amazing work, and I’m so proud to be a part of it.
Before covid started my dog and I went through training and we are so excited to start back up to help others “feel loved”
Paws and Think visited Greenfield Parks and Recreations Kids Kamp multiple times during the summer of 2021! The kids loved every single visit! They read books, learned dog safety, and just got to talk and pet the therapy dogs. Paws and Think is a great addition to the community and events!
I am a newly certified therapy team with Paws and Think Inc. I spent a great deal of time researching which organization would be the best fit for me and my beautiful 2 year old Standard Poodle and hands down Paws and Think had us at hello. From day one we were greeted with smiling faces and amazing help to get us through the certification process.
This organization does so much within our local community and truly gives back to the community and offers so many different areas and facilities for the volunteers to contribute. I’m always eager to see what is available for us every time I open the new calendar. They truly mean “Every Person Every Dog”. This organization touches so many lives and changes so many lives and because of them has given me a small role in helping to put smiles on faces and making days a little bit brighter for others. This organization is truly there for the community. I now advocate to all of my friends especially those with furr babies to please volunteer with Paws and Think and put a smile on someone’s face today.
I started volunteering with Paws and Think last fall and became a therapy dog team with my dog Dexter in May. It has been so rewarding seeing the joy on children’s faces as we visited camps, libraries, and other venues. Everyone involved, from the trainers to the volunteer coordinators and other volunteers, has been so helpful in getting us started on our journey!
Paws & Think is an amazing locally-based organization that does so much to help both people and dogs in Indianapolis. Their therapy dog programs allow so many people to benefit from visiting with a dog at places like nursing homes, hospitals, libraries, and schools. In addition to the many different venues that they have standing partnerships with, they also offer free therapy dog visits to provide stress relief for employees and students. There is even a virtual visit option that anyone can sign up for! I have been a volunteer since 2015 and I love helping out with their therapy dog training classes, it has been such a fun way to learn more about dog training and the skills that are required for a therapy dog. I also adopted a dog that graduated from the Youth-Canine program at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center. Being a part of this organization has had such a positive impact on my life and has made me love Indianapolis even more!
The team at Paws and Think are some of the most dedicated, compassionate people you will ever meet! The time and attention they give to training and supporting every therapy dog and volunteer to ensure the highest quality standards in all of their programming is obvious at every turn. If you're looking for a place to volunteer your time, to share your support, or to help you support those you serve though a unique dog/human connection, you don't need to look any further than Paws and Think!
The human-dog connection is celebrated here via visits to hospitals, libraries, senior centers, etc. This organization has done an excellent job adjusting to the no-visit rules of CoVID19 as well...impressive.
My husband and I have been donors for years, but I recently started working with Paws & Think and I am astounded by the professionalism and dedication within the organization. The commitment of the leadership, most notably the Executive Director, is unbelievable and makes Paws & Think an incredible place to learn and to serve the community.
I have had the pleasure of telling the stories of Paws and Think Volunteers for several years. I have witnessed first hand not only how amazing the organization is, but the incredible impact therapy teams have on the community.
From working with grieving children and disabled adults to bringing joy to hospitalized patience, Paws and Think brings joy to whomever they meet.
Paws & Think is comprised of the most professional, dedicated and compassionate team of staff and volunteers I have ever had the pleasure of working with! Since 2014, youth involved in the Hamilton County Youth Canine Program have enjoyed an amazing opportunity to learn from and work with some of the most special adult volunteers. Youth are also afforded the unique opportunity, in a positive and supportive environment, to give back to the dogs in the Hamilton County Humane Society. Lead Trainer Kim Trimpe ensures that each team has the support, materials, and guidance needed for each day of training. Kim takes special attention to make sure that the needs of both the animals and the youth are met, thereby facilitating an amazing and successful program every time. ED Kelsey Burton and her team are always so easy to work with; whether it is admin and logistical planning or conducting post-reviews, Kelsey facilitates an environment of collaboration and teamwork. Amazing program to work with - looking forward to many years of programs together!
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From the Director, to the volunteers, to the canine trainers -- Paws and Think is a phenomenal contribution to the greater Indianapolis area! Working together to serve youth in our community through canines was one of the best professional experiences I have ever had. Volunteers are caring, compassionate, and well-trained. The Canine Trainer was exceptional -- she was engaging, inspiring and approachable. Finally, Kelsey - the Executive Director - is absolutely amazing! She is very easily able to bring community partners together, is beyond knowledgeable about the needs of both youth and canines, and is just a pleasure to work with. Cannot wait for our next program together. Thank you from the Fishers Youth Assistance Staff and clients for an amazing partnership and experience!!
Hazel and I have been volunteering with this great organization for 5 years. The opportunities are endless in bringing the human animal connection to so many lives in so many venues. Hazel and I volunteer with Paws and Heal, CAP Team , Camp Healing Tree and CrisIs Intervention Team. We are grateful to the leadership especially our Executive Director Kelsey Burton whose passion, compassion, devotion and tireless effort in making Paws and Think so awesome. This allows Hazel and I to bring joy, happiness, healing and comfort to so many. Thank you Paws and Think for helping us fulfill our passion.
We have had two of our children participate in their youth canine training program. It was a huge blessing to both of them. My oldest after participating loved it so much he became a volunteer and eventually got our family all to volunteer. Such a wonderful program helping so many in our community in many different ways.
Training of volunteers and their pets is top notch!!! I was a helper at dog training today and it is so thorough. Therapy teams are well qualified. Need a place to donate/support their dedicated mission...this is it...PAWS & THINK!!
I’ve volunteered with Paws and Think for several years, and it’s one of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve ever encountered. From the board to the teams on the front line, it’s professionally managed and executed. The volunteers all seem to know the goals they’re working toward - everyone pulls together and enjoys it!
My dog and I love volunteering for Paws & Think. Paws & Think allows us to help so many in the community.
I began volunteering with this organization 4 years ago. I was, and still am, so impressed with the professionalism of all the staff and volunteers. I really like that they have a 2-year recertification policy, to ensure each of the therapy dog teams remain qualified.
Such a fantastic organization that makes a huge impact on our city. The dogs touch so many lives in hospitals, schools, libraries, grief counseling organizations, and so much more. It's a pleasure to volunteer for Paws & Think as well.
Each August, Camp Healing Tree is blessed with the healing presence of 10+ Paws and Think therapy dogs and their owners. These wonderful humans and dogs provide comfort and care to 70+ grieving children throughout the entire weekend. They have been one of the greatest additions to Camp - campers and volunteers alike note the Paws and Think teams as one of the most therapeutic parts of camp, year after year.
The handlers and animals are wonderful! The clients eagerly look forward to visits and talk for days about the great experience after the therapy dog visits. This has been a huge benefit to staff and clients and great stress reducing therapy.
Paws and Think started visiting my workplace almost 2 years ago. It is amazing to see how happy our staff are when Rhett and his owner, Becky, come to visit. Even for myself, the stress and tension of the day just disappears. We have also been lucky enough to meet other volunteers and we couldn’t be happier. This is one of the best partnerships our agency has made!
I joined Paws & Think early 2019 and have been very pleased with their organization and breath of services. I was even able to volunteer without my dog when it was necessary.
This organization does wonderful things for Central Indiana!
This is an AMAZING organization that gives so much to our organization. Rhett comes out every other week and we look forward to time spent with him and his owner! We are so grateful for all that they do and the smiles they bring to client faces!
I love Paws and Think, the dogs are so relaxing when they come to my work twice a month, it gives me a chance to relax & love on the dogs, the handlers are so kind & they enjoy what they do know that they are making someones day much better
Paws and Think is a fantastic local non-profit! The organization impacts the Indianapolis community in many positive ways. Paws and Think therapy dogs and their owners provide smiles and comfort to students, patients, residents, and staff members at a number of venues throughout Indianapolis. I currently do not have a therapy dog, but still enjoy volunteering at a hospital venue and help with therapy classes and evaluations.
I highly recommend this organization to anyone that loves dogs and how they can positively improve lives through the power of the human-dog connection
Paws & Think is a very organized, well run nonprofit. I was able to qualify as a therapy team with my first dog, Ginger. I can't wait for my current puppy to mature enough to go thru training!
There are many volunteer opportunities. Whether you have a dog or not they need volunteers and donations are needed too! A very worthy nonprofit!!
Camp Healing Tree wouldn’t be complete without Paws and Think. Every year they supply each one of our groups with a therapy dog and sometimes even extra dogs for extra support. Paws and Think dogs and volunteers help our kids and teens share their stories when, at times, it can be hard share to other people. We love Paws and Think and get excited every year they are at camp!!
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Paws and Think is an integral part of Camp Healing Tree every year. Having this organization apart of our camp family has allowed our campers to share their stories in new ways. Often some of our shyest campers will share openly with the dogs instead of during group time. That is a connection we could never have without the help of Paws and Think! We look forward to many years of friendship between both organizations.
Fritz and I love volunteering with Paws and Think. He loves going to all the venues and providing joy to lives, and I enjoy experiencing all the good that it does. It warms my heart to see the smiles from the people we visit. This is a great group of caring individuals providing a great service. We recently had to stop for a while due to surgery Fritz had, and I can tell you we both missed it. Both of us were eager and excited to get back as soon as we could. This organization has brought light to so many including us.
I love this organization! They are great to volunteer for, every person we have met has been friendly and informative. They care very much about the folks they serve and the dogs and volunteers.
I work for a local non-profit organization in Indianapolis, IN that serves individuals experiencing mental health, addictions and behavioral health issues for both adults and children. Paws and Think volunteers and their dogs currently visit 5 of our offices and provide the most amazing support to both our client's and staff. I frequently hear remarks such as "ahhhh" and "this made my day" . I have even seen staff stop what they are doing and get on the floor to cuddle with a dog. The smiles these dogs bring to us are indescribable! We are always looking to expand with Paws and Think and plan to have a life long partnership with them. You go Paws and Think woof woof!!!!
My dog and I have been training to be a therapy team for the last year and just qualified in August. I researched organizations before selecting Paws and Think because they are so well-organized and have such an amazing range of organizations they serve in our community (schools, libraries, retirement homes, memory care, hospitals, programs for adults with disabilities, first responders, crisis intervention, local businesses, wellness fairs, colleges, and so much more). My dog was only a little over a year old when we began taking the evening training classes, and she needed to mature a bit before we could pass the assessment, but the team at P&T stuck with us and encouraged us to remain involved. I’ve had terrific support as a volunteer, and I feel GREAT telling people about this organization. The schedule offers a diverse array of ways to get involved both with and without your dog, and the people are so great. Their volunteer software program allows you to easily schedule therapy volunteer work/visits and track your hours and service. My dog always enjoys the interaction with our clients and with other P&T teammates.
Exceptional. well run, non-profit. My therapy dog Rookie and I have seen some amazing miracles. We were with a stroke patient when he first spoke and moved his limbs for the first time when communicating with the dog. Up to that point he would not respond to anyone.
Paws and Think is organization that is more than great!!
Being a volunteer for Paws & Think has been one of the highlights of my life. Working along side my therapy dog to help those who need unconditional love and support is very rewarding. I also volunteer for their Youth-Canine program and throughly enjoy helping at-risk youth and shelter dogs get a second chance. This organization does so much for our community, and I’m so happy to be a part of it.
Paws & Think is incredible! Everywhere they go, they leave goodness and happiness. Whether it’s having therapy dogs to comfort folks or using shelter dogs to teach at-risk kids how to be compassionate, they are doing so much good in our community!
Our mini golden doodle and I recently became a therapy team and I can already see how amazing this organization is in helping bring others the same joy our dogs bring to us. Faces immediately light up when they see the dogs and it truly brings people a sense of calm and healing in the midst of often stressful and chaotic situations. We are so proud to be a part of the Paws and Think family.
Paws and Think has spent the last several months planning, creating, and executing a new and custom program for Ascension St. Vincent in Indianapolis called Paws to Heal. They have been extraordinarily flexible and creative in meeting our hospital's needs and the needs of the patients we serve. Each handler takes the time to not only become a Paws and Think certified team, but also an Ascension St. Vincent volunteer. Our calendar is quickly filling up. Paws and Think has also sacrificed their personal time to come in on off days to see emergent cases, both pediatric and adult.
One of my favorite stories thus far: we were headed to the medical intensive care unit(MICU) and the patient was in the process of being transported to surgery when we arrived. Instead of coming back another time, the trained therapy dog was able to ride with the nervous patient all the way to the operating room. It was magical to see her anxiety transform into pure joy and relief as she rode with the therapy dog.
Paws and Think has not only met, but far exceeded our wildest expectations for care not only for our patients and their families, but also the visitors and our own Ascension St. Vincent associates. In the photos attached you will see some therapy dogs interacting with our nursing staff after a long shift. It is an absolute pleasure to work with Paws and Think. We are very pleased with their Paws to Heal program.
I continue to be amazed by the impact this organization has on all the lives they touch. There are so many people in this world that are need of a little help, hope, and compassion. I can think of no better organization that brings together dogs and people to make such profound differences in peoples lives. I am truly humbled and privileged to serve on the board of this tremendous organization.
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I am privileged to serve on the board of this wonderful organization. Bringing together dogs and people in need is a special and rewarding endeavor. This organization is truly committed to making the lives of dogs and people better. It is warming to see how people light up when they see our dogs coming and how excited the dogs get when they get to help people. I true sight to see.
Paws and Think has provided a lot of support and opportunity for me and my dog to work as a therapy team.
They had training opportunities to help us succeed as well as multiple different venues where we can volunteer.
Paws and Think has been a very rewarding nonprofit to work with. Not only are the people amazing the dogs are fantastic as well. The feeling of helping people while sharing your furry friend is outstanding!!
This organization is an outstanding group of people who truly understand the meaning of caring for others. I was fortunate enough to be a volunteer with them for the past few years and found it one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I can’t say enough about the important role they play in the lives of those who receive their caring visits as well as those who do the visiting. They impact so many people in our community on a daily basis. They provide a much need service by providing therapy dog visits to seniors, hospital patients, veterans, children, more. The READ program supports our children in school and the youth canine program supports the incarcerated youth and animal rescue dogs. Paws and Think is extremely valuable in our community.
I have experienced Paws and Think both as a volunteer and a participant. I have had multiple therapy teams in my classroom for the past 5 years. Everyone looked forward to our day - kids, therapy team, and me....
Absolutely amazing experience for everyone involved.
I also volunteer and make Bark Blankets to go home with dogs that are adopted.
I believe in Paws and Think so much that I am now working with my own dog on becoming certified.
Paws and Think comes to Camp Healing Tree to help comfort our special campers who are going through a big change after someone they love dies. Our relationship has grown so that each group is able to have their own special pup. We appreciate all the loving and caring people and their 4 legged volunteers.
It has been an amazingly rewarding experience for both myself and my canine partner! I love witnessing the growth is the children we read with and my partner enjoys all the affection.
The Glendale Branch Library of the Indianapolis Public Library has had a long
standing ( 10 years) rewarding relationship with Paw and Think and the 23 different dogs and
volunteers. They have added a delightful and surprising ambiance to the library while encouraging young people to read, which is what we are all about.
We have an amazing volunteer come to our preschool monthly with her big, furry, loving companion Bella. She joins us for circle time where we begin by reading a book aloud. Our kids are all speech and/or language delayed so we always develop an activity where kids can tell Bella about their project. We design it so that the kids can ask Bella questions as well. For our kids, interaction with an animal is often less stressful than communicating with people and they LOVE to see her each month! Bella is a great model and a great listener. We are so grateful for our time with her and her owner. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!
The Indianapolis Public Library is a proud host to many Paws & Think therapy teams. The children look forward to reading to their favorite dog in a non-judgmental environment. Of course, the children love to give and receive lots of puppy love.
It has been a joy working with the staff of Paws & Think. They have helped us to develop and roll out to our staff, a set of solid procedures that ensures a safe and rewarding experience for our patrons, volunteers, staff, and the therapy team. This is the foundation for a long-term, positive partnership.
I was part of the Paws and Think in Noblesville. We linked teens with shelter dogs for a week. It was so encouraging. These kids let their guards down and these dogs soaked up the love and attention! What an amazing program to offer!
As a children's librarian and animal lover, one of my missions years ago was to get a Paws to Read program going at our public library. Our director at the time was resistant to the idea, primarily for liability reasons. Enter Paws and Think. Gayle Hutchens met with me a couple of times in the early 2000s to work through the details of creating a relationship between that organization and the library. With her help, we started inviting children to come to the library to read to a friendly dog. For at least ten years now, this monthly program has been one of our patrons' most beloved events. We are a busy library, and without the gracious, dedicated volunteers and the organizational skills of their leaders, we wouldn't be able to do this. I can't tell you how many kids--even reluctant readers--light up when given a chance to curl up with a book and read to a dog who will listen without judgement. What sets this group apart is their dedication to continued training (including the R.E.A.D. training). And over the years, the dog-lover in me has been most impressed that while they’re committed to the well-being of the people they serve, they’re just as committed to the health and happiness of the dogs who give so much.
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I'm a children's librarian at the Carmel Clay Public Library. We've had monthly visits from the dogs and volunteers for a few years now, and this has been one of our best-received programs ever. For so many reluctant or struggling readers, the simple act of reading aloud to these dogs has opened up a whole new world. One parent told me that she struggled to get her son to practice his reading even for a few minutes a day , until he got involved with our "Paws to Read" program, which inspired him to practice at home for a full hour! He told his mom that he wanted to be ready for his appointment with the Paws and Think dog. And just this past weekend, a mom watched in amazement as her child had her first chance to read to a dog--her daughter ordinarily didn't like reading aloud, but there she was, confidently reading to Ginny, the little dog who listened happily with no judgment!
I am a new member of the Board and have been greatly impressed by the energy and commitment of the numerous volunteers that assist throughout Central Indiana. Paws and Think is an extraordinary organization that touches the lives of thousands every year.
I have been volunteering with Paws and Think since 2013. I started out volunteering where I could without having my own dog and they were very supportive in letting me know how to volunteer and were always good communicators with me. The leadership at the time reached out to welcome me and make me feel like my help was important and needed. Over time I became more involved and am now a board member myself. It is a great organization that does so much for its community and its volunteers.
Very unique and niche service they provide in our local community. It's easy to see from the faces and reactions of those lives the organization's therapy teams touch that the impact is lasting and meaningful.
My husband and I are proud to be donors and supporters of Paws & Think. We've enjoyed getting to know the volunteers and staff through their events and yappy hours. They do great work with their therapy dogs and with their program at the Juvenile Detention Facility. We look forward to their upcoming event in October.
I just love the work this organization does. I've seen several stories on PetPals about the different work they are doing in the community. I'm so glad they are in our community!
I take Rookie to Robin Run Nursing facility every other Friday. One Friday as we passed a door, I asked my escort why we weren't going in there. She told me the patient wasn't responding to anyone either verbally or any commands. I said "that is just the person who needs to see Rookie." So we hesitantly went into B.'s room. I felt like I was a fly on the wall watching.
Rookie went right up to B. and began his own interactions. B began petting the dog and then said "big Dog". The escort asked me if the patient had just spoken to me. I said no--he spoke to Rookie.......and many tears came that day---tears of happiness. B not only spoke for the first time after his stroke but was able to follow purposeful commands and even gave Rookie some treat. It was a miracle and all the nurse were calling Rookie the miracle dog!
These are the type of miracles that happen with a Therapy Dog.
I joined Paws & Think in 2013. The Youth Canine program at the Marion County juvenile detention center, which helps incarcerated teens teach shelter dogs basic obedience, improving behavior for both the teens and the dogs and substantially improving adoption rates for the dogs). I have served as a volunteer at our Youth Canine programs, as a reading buddy and as part of our therapy team training process. I have served on the Board as treasurer and President.
Over the past three years, this great organization has become even better. Our mission statement is "Improving lives through the power of the human-dog connection." We do this through our Youth Canine, Reading and Therapy programs. We are a volunteer-based program, and our volunteers are the amazing, dedicated and empathetic heart of the organization. Our diverse and talented board and executive director are constantly seeking to improve and expand our programming in Indianapolis and surrounding areas.
If you are looking to improve the lives of dogs or people in the Indianapolis, check out Paws & Think!
Camp Healing Tree is a place where grieving children dealing with significant deaths gather for a weekend. Paws and Thinkis one of the BIG assets at camp. Linking pet therapy with childhood grief and loss provides campers an unconditional love as they face the emotional roller coaster that accompanies grief. We find Paws and Think to be phenomenal
I am a volunteer with Paws and Think. What a great service this organization provides to Central Indiana! It is heart=warming to see what the human-dog connection can do for a child, someone who is ill or grieving. The dogs and volunteers are the heart of Paws and Think!
I am a volunteer with Paws and Think and have truly enjoyed my experience. My dog and I are a certified therapy team and have had the opportunity to work with second graders through the READ program at one of our area schools as well as volunteering at The Julian Center. I am proud to be able to volunteer with such an awesome group!
I have worked with this organization in several aspects of their mission. It is an excellent organization with truly dedicated people. I have seen first hand the impact these programs have created through the human-animal bond. I would highly recommend Paws and Think to people looking to be philanthropic or assist as a volunteer.
My school, Eleanor Skillen Elementary, has worked with Paws and Think for many years, and plan to continue for many more. It is truly a great group of people, and of course we adore the dogs!
Our Reading Education Assistance Dogs program got a late start at IPS 42, Elder Diggs Elementary. This school is in one of the poorest neighborhoods in town, but the kids don't know that. We had only been there the week before and were just getting to know the kids, and they were just getting to know the dogs they were reading to. These first few visits are most important in building relationships, then the reading will follow. I was surprised and warmed when one of the little 2nd graders reading to Harriet leaned over and gave me a hug as she left to go back to class. I felt warmed as though I'd been touched by an angel. I think we can make a difference in their lives, one at a time. And I'm proud of that.
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As a volunteer for Paws and Think for the past six years, I have seen this organization blossom in a way that is so wonderful! The Youth-Canine program, always felt to be what set us apart from being just another Pet Therapy group, has enjoyed tremendous success this year at the Juvenile Detention Center. Touching the lives of these kids with the unconditional love of a dog produces amazing changes. Many of them have never known such love before. And the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.) are helping kids achieve grade-level reading, so critical to success in life. More volunteers are needed to serve additional Title 1 schools with this great program. I can't think of a more meaningful organization to devote my time and energies to!
This is the best volunteer organization I have worked with...and I've done a lot of volunteer work. The work is rewarding and fulfilling. My dog and I love visiting the library and adult day care settings and seeing the looks on people's faces as they light up while they pet my dog Lexi. They will tell us all about their pets, stories of love and loss...the children at the library relax and reading comes easier. They love to finish their reading session by giving Lexi a treat. It's very rewarding time well spent!
My dog and I are part of the READ program. Second graders read to Sadie and learn the reading can be fun. And, as my dog's partner, I get to see her share her love with the kids and see the kids gain confidence as well as having a bright spot in their day.
I really enjoy working with this organization. They have the biggest hearts and do such a wonderful job preparing their volunteers. The kids love the programs that they participate it, and I think they are making a big difference in their community. Thank you for all you do.
There are so many wonderful things to say about Paws and Think! They have been providing our residents with therapy dog visits for over a year now! All of our residents look forward to Wednesdays when our special furry friends come to visit! The residents get the biggest smiles on their face when Remington, Bella and Betty walk in the room. We have residents who open up to the dogs who normally stay to themselves. They are true therapy for not only our residents but also our staff. We look forward to working with Paws and Think for years to come! We love you Remington, Bella & Betty! Thank you for your unconditional love!
Thursdays are extra- special in my kindergarten classroom! That's when two wonderful Paws and Think volunteers bring their dogs so the kids can read to them. The volunteers have been trained to cue the students as they read, enabling their comprehension and fluency and the dogs (of course) provide a nonjudgmental audience.
The Paws-and-Think-Inc. group works at our school (Crestview Elementary in Lawrence Twp.) with 2nd graders. It is a group of students who lacks self confidence when reading. The children look forward to reading with the dogs and the adults help guide them in their reading struggles. I am the school librarian and we conduct the program out of the library. It is a wonderful program to support our students. I am so happy that we were able to join this program and would highly recommend it anywhere children need help with building self-confidence in their reading.
In 2009 Glendale Library had it's first "Paws To Read" program thanks to the dogs and volunteers of Paws and Think. Over the past 6 years countless numbers of young readers improved their reading skills under the watchful , encouraging eyes of the dog and the volunteer. Our patrons look forward to the dogs at the library, to the extent even the dogs get telephone calls at the library!
Having a Paws and Think therapy dog and handler visit my school has been a true blessing! Students who struggle with grief, loss, depression, as well as academics have experienced the unconditional affection and listening ears of a dog while working through their troubles with the school counselor. Both the dog and the handler are true professionals who bring grace and gentleness to our school. We hope to maintain a partnership for many years to come!
Paws and Think is staffed with amazing volunteers and exceptional dogs. The work that I am so pleased to be a part of brings smiles to patients in hospitals, assistance to second grade readers, and hope to youth in detention. These are generous, kind, and funny people who share their generous, kind, and funny dogs with children and adults who, for a variety of reasons, are in a vulnerable time in their lives. It brings joy to my heart as I watch my dog comfort someone in a nursing home or when I watch my Golden sit quietly with an 8 year old who struggles to read aloud - no judgement, just acceptance. Now if that isn't a lovely gift, I don't know what is!
I am a volunteer with Paws and Think And I love it! I am working to have one of my dogs certified to be a therapy dog so I can visit venues in that capacity but this organization offers many volunteer opportunities for those without dogs as well, which I really appreciate. I found Paws and Think when looking for a volunteer activity that I could fit around my work schedule. They have opportunities weekdays, weekends and evenings so that everyone can find a time that works. Combined with my interest in literacy and my love of dogs I knew it was a perfect fit for me. I have met amazing people and their dogs and cannot speak highly enough of this organization.
I have been a volunteer for Paws & Think for 1 year, and from the beginning of my communications with Brad Kupper & the other officers, I have been impressed with the level of excellence, dedication, passion and professionalism on the leadership team. When an organization is headed by such a team as this, it will thrive and make a difference in others' lives. I have witnessed that in the elementary school that my dog & I have volunteered in as part of the R.E.A.D. program (Reading Education Assistance with Dogs). Over the course of a school year, not only did the students gain in reading skills, but their confidence & enjoyment of reading to my dog increased. As Dr. Ben Carson has stated, reading is the key to a person's future. If you are thinking of donating to a worthy cause, or being involved in one, I can recommend this nonprofit with no reservations.
As a teacher at Eleanor Skillen Elementary School 34, I can tell you that Paws and Think has made a huge difference in the lives of our students. Truly, it is amazing. The volunteers are well-trained, and the therapy dogs really fill a need with our students, not only because our students read with them once a week, but also because the dogs give the students unconditional love, support, and attention! We will be partnering with them again this year!
Paws and Think has been apart of Joy's House for many years now. Each person that brings their pet in to visit with our Guests is always very respectful and sensitive to the needs and diagnosis of each individual that attends.
I work for a social service agency in Indianapolis and we partner with Paws to Think to provide opportunities for our clients and their children to practice reading in a calm, yet fun environment. It has been such a joy to see the kids become more confident, enthusiastic readers when they sit down with the loving dogs. I would encourage any parent or caregiver to make full use of this service for the development of their children.
We work with Paws and Think, Inc. when we host them twice a month for "Paws to Read" a program with therapy dogs trained to listen intently as kids practice their reading skills. The kids who come for this love the dogs, and the dogs give the kids the chance to practice their reading skills in a non-threatening environment. The volunteers (both human and canine) always show up when expected, always with enthusiasm, which really relieves pressure on us in providing quality, free, regular programming for kids. They're truly a joy to work with.
I work in a kindergarten through fourth grade classroom for students with intensive behavioral and mental health needs. To further help address my students' needs, I reached out to Paws and Think to incorporate therapy dogs into our classroom. This is the best decision I have made since working in this classroom!!! We all look forward to Miss Susie and Lucy or Miss Kathy and Mater coming every week to spend time in our classroom. My students all have time to read with the therapy dog and adult as well as just talk, pet the dog, or have the therapy dog do tricks. ALL of my kids have improved their reading abilities SO much, which was not really the real reason we started this program. Two of my kids were afraid of dogs and hadn't had any interactions with dogs. Now they all know appropriate behavior with animals and always show respect to the dogs and their owners. I am so hopeful to continue this partnership next year with Paws and Think. Miss Susie and my kids have really bonded and she even brings gifts to the kids, picks out books for the kids and donated materials for our class. We can't wait for our end of the year celebration where, after hearing all about them, our parents can meet Miss Susie, Lucy, Miss Kathy, and Mater. Thank you Paws and Think!!! You all are so special and so awesome!!!
Paws and Think Inc has been a wonderful partnership for my students. Our 2nd graders look forward to every single visit from our doggie friends. This organization has made an important impact on reading in our school!
Elder W. Diggs, Indianapolis Public School #42
When we moved to Indianapolis a year or so ago, I started looking right away for places/causes with which to volunteer. I happily found Paws and Think, and am so pleased to be serving in an organization that is true to its vision, purpose, and goals. I have a Golden Retriever who has brought great joy into my life, and now I get to share him with others in meaningful ways. We go to elementary schools as part of the READ program where Sailor listens as children read aloud to him, we visit the VA Hospital weekly where Sailor comforts patients, staff, and visitors to the hematology unit, and we also visit area nursing homes and even colleges to help students de-stress during finals. As an organization, I was impressed right off the bat with the follow through from the staff -- I was contacted very soon after I applied to become a volunteer and was encouraged to get involved right away. I have developed a great respect for the other volunteers who spend a tremendous amount of effort and time in making the organization successful and run smoothly. The canine - human bond is an extraordinary relationship, and it's delightful to be a part of an organization that seeks to serve the Indianapolis area in creative ways through the utilization of well trained and well loved dogs. It's a win for the dogs and a win for the humans.
It is hard for me to imagine my life without Paws and Think as I LOVE being a volunteer here! I have been with Paws and Think (P&T) as a volunteer since 2008, when I became friends over the internet with the founder Gayle Hutchens. I enjoy the great group of friends, 2 legged and 4, that I have met here and the great strides that we have made in the past year to bring our programs to ALL of Indy and it's surrounding areas and those in our communities that need our programs the most. I have two registered therapy dogs with P&T, each with their own preferred places that they like to go! So that is nice as I like to visit senior citizens at memory care and nursing facilities and my dog Eddy will go with me there. My other dog Dickens is a child's best friend and will do lots of tricks AFTER our R.E.A.D., reading session when they ask him to. Not only do I enjoy visiting with my therapy dogs, but I also like to help our new volunteers train their dogs, volunteer on our grant writing, event planning and any committee where I can help out!!
I just recently joined the Board of Directors of Paws & Think and am excited to be part of a team that values the importance of the bond between humans and dogs and has the passion, drive and knowledge to develop programming that benefits all involved while aquiring the impactful data that is needed to support our mission so we can expand on what we are doing. Thrilled to be engaged and excited to continue and build the organization!
I just started volunteering with Paws and Think this year and am greatly enjoying it! The people who run the organization are very wonderful, nice, welcoming, and so excited about what they do to help our community! As a veterinarian, I enjoy working with dogs to help people in need, whether it be children who need encouragement developing reading skills or at-risk youth who can gain valuable life skills. This is a wonderful organization to work with whether or not you have a dog (which I don't)!
My family has owned an Italian Restaurant in Indianapolis, IN for 35 years and for the past three years we have now become dog friendly in our courtyard. In those three years I have had the pleasure of having Paws and Think at my establishment to help raise funds towards their continued efforts. I must say that this organization is one of the Best I've come to know. I commend them for what they do in the community and will continue to support them in the coming years. The Pups are amazing and their Owners equally committed to their Cause.
Paws and Think is dedicated to providing opportunities to enhance the lives of both people and animals. By pairing these two groups together, both can learn new skills and benefit from the teachings of positive reinforcement. The organization presents choices to people who might not know such opportunities exist. In the end, both the dogs and the trainers end up with a lot of new skills.
The Paws and Think program is absolutely spectacular. As an educator for 40 years, I have seen many trends in education be implemented, some with great success and some without. After watching children interact with the Paws and Think program, I can honestly exclaim that I have seen nothing like the experiences these folks, both 2 and 4 legged, brought to the table. This program touched the lives of many children in a caring and nurturing manner. I witnessed children who showed no interest in reading become actively interested and involved. Further, children with special needs, socially, emotionally, and academically became inspired to enhance their abilities on a very personal level. In all of my years of teaching, I have never experienced what the Paws and Think program gave to our students. On behalf of my former students and myself, thank you for touching our lives.
My involvement with Paws & Think began when I volunteered for a Youth Canine program. These programs consist of using dogs from Humane Societies or Animal Care & Control, and matching them up with kids (such as those in detention centers, pregnant teens, etc.) who teach the dogs basic commands. Not only does this make the dogs more "adoptable" but it also teaches the kids how to use positive reinforcement -- while boosting their self-esteem. Watching the bond form between the kids and these dogs is simply magical.
Paws and Think is a wonderful non-profit organization that is constantly looking to benefit others. Their pet therapy dogs visit residents in nursing homes several times a month and are excellent therapy for those suffering from dementia. The volunteers reminisce with the residents about their own pets that they owned at one time and being able to touch an animal brings back poignant, happy memories. A true blessing to have Paws and Think as volunteers!
Paws and Think dog teams volunteer weekly at the Glendale Library branch, helping children practice their reading skills. We have dogs come in three nights per week, and have met a variety of teams. Although our staff are dog lovers and many patrons enjoy just petting the dogs, I truly know that specific dogs have made a huge difference in the lives of some of our children and their families. One little girl, who came to the program barely speaking, can now read fluently and donated all of her Lemonade Day money to the Library for Paws and Think. We recently met a mother and daughter who just moved to Indianapolis -- her mother said that coming to the Library and reading to the dogs really helped her daughter adjust to all of the changes in her life. She could not thank us and Paws to Think enough for offering the program. The teams have also helped us reach out into the community, attending Nite Out Against Crime events and walking in a local parade! We enjoy have Paws & Think teams come to the Glendale Library -- they truly add to the identity of the branch and impact the lives of our patrons.