KANINES FOR KIDS
Led by President Susan Hill | shill@kaninesforkids.help
KANINES FOR KIDS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that operates on a not-for-profit basis and solely for the public benefit. We are dedicated to connecting children with therapy dogs, creating meaningful bonds that foster emotional healing and provide essential companionship for kids who need it most.
Get Involved
Our Location
DOSWELL, Virginia
23047-0000
Proudly serving the Virginia community and surrounding areas with our therapy dog programs. Our central location allows us to reach families across the region who need our services most.
Our Mission
Healing hearts, one wag at a time.
At KANINES FOR KIDS, we believe in the transformative power of the human-animal bond. Our mission is simple yet profound: to bring hope, comfort, and healing to children through carefully matched therapy dog partnerships that create lasting positive impact in young lives.
What We Do
Therapy Dog Connections
We carefully match certified therapy dogs with children who can benefit from animal-assisted support. Our trained canine companions provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and create safe spaces for emotional expression and healing.
Emotional Support
Our programs focus on fostering emotional resilience in children facing challenges. Through gentle interactions with therapy dogs, kids learn coping skills, build confidence, and experience unconditional acceptance.
Community Outreach
We extend our services to schools, hospitals, counseling centers, and community organizations, ensuring that children across our region have access to the healing power of therapy animals when they need it most.
The Power of Therapy Dogs
Scientific Benefits
Research consistently shows that interactions with therapy animals can lower blood pressure, reduce cortisol levels, and increase the production of mood-boosting hormones like serotonin and dopamine.
  • Decreased anxiety and stress
  • Improved social skills
  • Enhanced emotional regulation
  • Increased motivation for treatment
Real Impact
Children who participate in our programs often show remarkable improvements in their ability to express emotions, build relationships, and cope with difficult situations. The non-judgmental presence of a therapy dog creates a unique environment for healing.
"Every child deserves to experience the pure, unconditional love that only a therapy dog can provide."
Our Programs & Services
Individual Sessions
One-on-one therapy sessions where children can work through personal challenges with the comforting presence of a trained therapy dog. These sessions are tailored to each child's specific needs and therapeutic goals.
Group Activities
Small group sessions that help children develop social skills while interacting with therapy dogs. These programs foster peer connections and create supportive communities for healing.
Crisis Response
Emergency deployment of therapy dog teams to schools and communities affected by trauma. Our rapid response capability provides immediate emotional support when children need it most.
Making a Difference
250+
Children Served
Young lives touched through our therapy dog programs this year
15
Therapy Dog Teams
Certified canine companions and their handlers ready to help
95%
Positive Outcomes
Of participating children show improved emotional well-being
8
Partner Organizations
Schools, hospitals, and counseling centers we collaborate with
These numbers represent real children whose lives have been touched by the healing power of therapy dogs. Behind each statistic is a story of hope, resilience, and the incredible bond between a child and their four-legged friend.
How You Can Help
01
Make a Donation
Your financial contribution helps us train therapy dogs, support our handlers, and expand our reach to more children in need. Every dollar directly impacts a child's healing journey.
02
Volunteer Your Time
Join our team as a therapy dog handler, administrative volunteer, or event coordinator. We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support for all volunteers.
03
Spread Awareness
Share our mission with friends, family, and community organizations. Help us connect with more children who could benefit from our therapy dog programs.
04
Partner With Us
If you represent a school, hospital, or counseling center, contact us to explore partnership opportunities that could bring our services to your community.
Success Stories
Sarah's Story
"After months of anxiety following a family crisis, my 8-year-old daughter Sarah began working with therapy dog Max. Within weeks, we saw her smile return and her confidence rebuild. KANINES FOR KIDS gave us hope when we needed it most."
- Jennifer M., Parent
School Partnership Success
"Our students have shown remarkable improvement in emotional regulation and classroom engagement since KANINES FOR KIDS began visiting weekly. The therapy dogs create a calm environment that enhances learning for everyone."
- Principal Rodriguez, Elementary School
These stories represent just a glimpse of the profound impact our therapy dogs have on children's lives. Each interaction creates ripples of healing that extend far beyond the initial meeting, touching families, schools, and entire communities.
Join Our Mission
KANINES FOR KIDS continues to grow and serve more children each year, but we can't do it alone. Whether you're inspired to donate, volunteer, or simply learn more about our work, we invite you to become part of our mission to heal hearts, one wag at a time.
Contact Us
President Susan Hill
Visit Us
DOSWELL, Virginia
23047-0000
Get Involved
Every child deserves healing
Every dog deserves purpose

KANINES FOR KIDS is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law.