Paws for Mental Health
Advancing Mental Health and Community Wellbeing Through Animal-Assisted Supports
Animals Have an Extraordinary Ability to Reach People
When words fall short, animals can create comfort, trust, and connection.
Through therapy animals and community partnerships, Paws for Mental Health supports youth, seniors, first responders, and individuals experiencing trauma, grief, and isolation.
This program is designed to create meaningful, accessible wellness opportunities that strengthen the bond between people and animals while reducing loneliness and building community, with support from Ambassador Calgary Flames defenseman Zach Whitecloud.
Provide Accessible Mental Wellness Opportunities
Creating barrier free, welcoming spaces in our facility where people can connect, heal, and feel supported.
Support Preventative Wellness
Helping individuals access support before they reach a crisis point.
Strengthen Community Connection
Bringing people together through compassion, shared experiences, and animal companionship.
Promote the Benefits of the Human Animal Bond
Highlighting the powerful role animals play in emotional wellness and recovery.
Reduce Loneliness and Isolation
Offering comfort, routine, and emotional connection through animal-assisted support.
Our program offers a variety of welcoming, low-barrier spaces and experiences designed to support emotional wellbeing through connection, creativity, and animal companionship.
Creative Wellness
Guided art and creative activities that encourage self-expression, mindfulness, connection, and stress relief in a supportive environment.
Mind & Body Wellness
Accessible wellness experiences including yoga, guided breathing, mindfulness, and other activities designed to reduce stress and support emotional wellbeing.
Mobile Wellness Programming
Bringing Paws for Mental Health directly into schools, seniors’ communities, workplaces, and community spaces, reaching people who may face barriers to traditional mental health supports through accessible wellness dogs, activities, and programming.
Corporate Wellness & Team Building
Customized corporate wellness experiences combining team building, wellness activities, and time with our wellness dogs to help teams connect, recharge, and strengthen relationships.
BOOK YOUR SESSION
From arts and crafts classes to mobile visits at your organization, explore what we have available.
Meet the Starting Line Up
Dorothy
Blanche
Goldie
Simon
Auggie
Our program dogs are at the heart of this experience, offering comfort, connection, and a calming presence to those who visit. Each dog is thoughtfully selected for their temperament and love of people.
With staff guidance, they help create a welcoming environment where participants can relax, feel supported, and experience the simple joy of spending time with animals.