West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc.
Bringing Comfort for 25 YEARSWest Michigan Therapy Dogs
Celebrating 25 yearsproviding Animal Assisted Activities to various groups in Western Michigan.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE, ONE WAG AT A TIME
For 25 years, West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc. (WMTD) has connected trained therapy dog teams with people in need of comfort, encouragement, and companionship. As a nonprofit organization powered by dedicated volunteers, we bring the healing power of the human-animal bond to healthcare facilities, schools, libraries, senior communities, nonprofit organizations, and other community programs throughout West Michigan. Since 2001, our teams have provided meaningful moments of connection, emotional support, and joy to people of all ages. Together, we are strengthening communities and making a difference, one wag at a time.
Making a difference, one wag at a time!
West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc. (WMTD) is a non-profit organization consisting of volunteer therapy dog and handler teams. We have been providing the western region of Michigan with Animal Assisted Activities (AAA) since 2001, and this year, we are celebrating our 25th Anniversary. We volunteer with community health facilities, non-profit organizations, educational programs, and more to provide emotional, physical, and psychological support through the human-animal healing connection, and we love “making a difference…one wag at a time!”
WHAT IS PET THERAPY?
Pet therapy is a broad term that includes animal-assisted therapy (AAT) and other animal-assisted activities. AAT involves animals to help individuals, many with health problems, to cope or recover, whether it's cancer, mental health issues, physical disabilities, and more. Animal-assisted activities are volunteer-based and meant to provide comfort and enjoyment to all ages.
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc. (WMTD) is a group of volunteers who provide Animal Assisted Activities to various groups in Western Michigan. Our services are free, and we do not accept monetary reimbursement for any of the services our members provide.
DONATE
We are a 501(c)(3) organization, and donations help us continue growing and reaching our goals. If you are interested in supporting our mission so we can serve more people in West Michigan, consider donating.
West Michigan Therapy Dogs
P.O. Box 2533
Grand Rapids, MI 49501-2533
Phone: 616-726-1256
Email: [email protected]
Have questions?
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IN THE NEWS
Continuing a Legacy of Comfort: Meet Liz & Emma
When Liz Fahnenstiel retired at 38, she never imagined a single conversation would lead to more than 20 years of therapy dog work and a lifelong mission of comfort, connection, and community. Today, she continues that journey alongside Emma Rose, an English White Labrador Retriever, sharing meaningful moments across hospitals, libraries, and care facilities throughout West Michigan.
Lending a Helping Paw: West Michigan Therapy Dogs │ LIVING WEST MICHIGAN
For more than 25 years, West Michigan Therapy Dogs has been bringing comfort, connection, and support to people across our community. Join Living West Michigan as they visit StoryPoint in Rockford to meet Walter, a Golden Retriever who is much more than just a “good dog,” and discover the meaningful impact therapy dog teams make every day. See why West Michigan Therapy Dogs has become a trusted source of comfort throughout West Michigan.
Maeve’s Story: From Shelter Dog to Therapy Dog
Maeve’s journey from a shy shelter dog to a certified therapy dog shows how second chances can change both a dog’s life and the people they serve. Now working alongside her handler Jarl, she brings calm, comfort, and connection to communities across West Michigan.