Loving Paws Animal Therapy

Petting, scratching, and cuddling a dog could be as soothing to the mind and heart as deep meditation and almost as good for the soul as prayer.

Mission Statement

The Mission of Loving Paws Animal Assisted Therapy Program, Inc. is to promote the human-animal bond, and create a fun and engaging environment that provides positive support and motivation, while enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable populations and those in need throughout Douglas County through education, certification, guidance and support using animal-assisted activity and therapy.

Our Program

Loving Paws Animal Therapy Program, Inc. is a local, 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded by Raven Rajani, LMSW, avid animal lover. Rajani’s passion for helping others, married with a deep love and appreciation for animals and their power to heal lives and hearts was the catalyst to the creation of the Loving Paws program. Along with her adopted/rescued Staffordshire Terrier, Shakti, the Loving Paws Program was born. The program believes in and supports the healing and connective power of the human-animal bond and its ability to heal and change lives for the better. (*I attached a picture of Shakti and I that can be used here?)

What We Do

Loving Paws Animal Therapy Program, Inc. provides animal assisted activity(AAA) and therapy training, evauation and certification to volunteer handlers and their dogs.

Once certified, our volunteer teams provide services throughout Lawrence and Douglas County, Shawnee County, Leavenworth County, Jefferson County, and Wyandotte County, We serve:

Our Certified Teams Serve:

• People receiving cancer treatments
• Clients with mental health diagnosis
• Residents in nursing and long-term care facilities
• Victims/Survivors of Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault
• Residents in Correctional Facilities
• People struggling with addictions
• Juvenile Offenders
• Children and Adults with special needs
• Children who struggle with reading
• Students at local universities
• Victims required to testify in Court
• Young Readers in local Libraries

What do the DOGS DO?

• Dogs encourage those who are non-verbal to speak and/or express themselves;
• Dogs promote cooperation in both young and old alike;
• Dogs support those who have difficulty expressing emotions and feelings constructively;
• Dogs reduce STRESS and ANXIETY;
• Dogs lower blood pressure;
• Dog interactions elevate levels of ‘feel good’ hormones;
• Dogs provide unconditional love, attention and serve as great listeners
• Dogs Bring JOY!

We're obviously working on building a new website, in the mean time you can visit us on Facebook or email us for more information.