PET THERAPY & SPECIALTY PROGRAMS
PAWSITIVE THERAPY
PAWSitive Pet Therapy volunteers visit local senior living communities, nursing homes, hospitals, schools, and other community organizations with their Canine Good Citizen (CGC)-certified dogs or therapy-certified cats. Our therapy animals are carefully selected for their calm, friendly temperaments and are fully vaccinated, providing comfort, companionship, and smiles to those they visit.
THE ANIMALS
Many of our PAWSitive Pet Therapy animals were once rescued themselves, overcoming challenges such as fear, neglect, or abandonment. Their inspiring journeys remind us that healing is possible, and their stories often resonate with those they visit. Today, they use their gentle nature and unconditional love to provide comfort, companionship, and hope throughout our community.
THE EXPERIENCE
At Naperville Area Humane Society, we believe the human-animal bond has the power to heal, comfort, and inspire. Through our
PAWSitive Pet Therapy program, dedicated volunteers and their therapy animals provide companionship, emotional support, and meaningful connections to the individuals and communities they visit.
Whether it's a wagging tail, a gentle purr, or a quiet moment spent together, these interactions bring smiles, reduce stress, and brighten lives. The unconditional love, patience, and compassion shared by our therapy animals create lasting memories and remind us all of the incredible impact animals can have on our well-being.
PAWS FOR TALES
Paws for Tales is Naperville Area Humane Society's animal-assisted reading program, designed to help children build confidence and improve literacy skills in a fun, supportive environment. Certified volunteer-and-therapy animal teams visit local schools, where students of all ages read aloud to a dog without fear of judgment or criticism.
Since the program's launch in 2009, educators have consistently reported improvements in students' reading confidence, fluency, and comprehension, as well as increased classroom engagement and positive behavior. By fostering a love of reading while strengthening the human-animal bond, Paws for Tales creates an encouraging experience that helps children thrive both academically and emotionally
Paws for Tales is about much more than improving reading skills—it's about building confidence, fostering connection, and creating a positive learning experience. We believe the bond between humans and animals is truly powerful. Reading aloud to a gentle therapy animal in a calm, nonjudgmental environment helps children feel at ease, allowing them to develop confidence without the fear of making mistakes.
The unconditional love, patience, and quiet encouragement provided by our therapy animals create an experience unlike any other. Many educators and parents have observed increased confidence, engagement, and enthusiasm for reading after just one session. The impact extends far beyond literacy, helping children develop self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and discover the joy of reading.
Watch the video below to see one of our Paws for Tales teams in action and the meaningful difference they're making in the lives of local students.
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN BECOMING A PET THERAPY VOLUNTEER?
Join Our Volunteer Therapy Team!
We're always looking for compassionate volunteers and their furry companions to join our Paws for Tales and PAWSitive Pet Therapy programs!
As a volunteer team, you and your certified therapy dog or cat will visit local schools, senior living communities, nursing homes, libraries, and other community organizations, bringing comfort, companionship, and encouragement to people of all ages.
Therapy animals should be friendly, well-mannered, enjoy interacting with people, and be current on all vaccinations. If your pet isn't certified yet, don't worry! We have a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluator on staff and can evaluate and certify eligible dogs right here at Naperville Area Humane Society, helping you and your pet begin making a meaningful difference in the community.
Together, you can brighten lives—one visit at a time.
Please view our CGC class schedules here.
Make a Difference on Your Schedule
There are countless opportunities to share the joy of animal companionship throughout our community. We partner with senior living communities, schools, libraries, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and other local organizations that are eager to welcome our volunteer therapy teams.
We'll work with you to find the right placement and schedule based on your interests and availability. Whether you prefer weekday visits, evenings, weekends, or participating in special events, there are flexible opportunities to fit your lifestyle.
Together, you and your pet can make a lasting impact—bringing comfort, connection, and smiles to those who need it most.
CONTACT INFORMATION
For more information about becoming a PAWSitive Pet Therapy or Paws for Tales volunteer, or if your school, senior living community, library, healthcare facility, or organization would like to schedule a visit from one of our therapy teams, please contact us. We'd love to discuss how our volunteers and their amazing animals can make a positive impact in your community.
Contact:
Julie Balsamo
Pet Therapy Program Coordinator
630-420-8989 x1010