I’m proud to share a little about my work in therapy dog training here in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida communities. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand just how powerful the bond between people and dogs can be, especially when a dog is trained to bring comfort, support, and healing to those who need it most.
My German Shepherd, Coco, has been an incredible partner in this journey. Together, we’ve been involved in numerous therapy dog activities, including some of the most difficult moments our community has faced. After the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Coco and I were honored to be part of the therapy dog teams that provided comfort to students, families, and staff as they began the long process of healing. Coco’s calm presence made it easier for many people to open up, find peace in the moment, and feel less alone during such an overwhelming time.
Coco also served at the Surfside building collapse, where families, first responders, and volunteers were dealing with unimaginable grief and stress. Therapy dogs like Coco played a critical role by offering quiet companionship and emotional support in the midst of tragedy. These experiences reinforced for me how vital therapy dogs can be in both crisis response and ongoing community care.
As a trainer, I believe therapy dog work is one of the most meaningful ways we can put our dogs’ abilities to use. Not every dog is suited for therapy work, but with the right temperament and proper training, they can make a tremendous difference in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, churches, and during times of crisis. That’s why I’m passionate about helping others learn more about therapy dog training in Fort Lauderdale and beyond. My goal is to guide dog owners who are interested in this path, teaching them what’s involved, how to prepare, and how to build a strong, dependable team with their dog.
Coco’s story is a reminder that therapy dogs can do more than just bring smiles—they can help people heal, cope, and find hope when life feels overwhelming. If you’re in the Fort Lauderdale area and have ever thought about exploring therapy dog training, I’d love to help you learn more about how you and your dog can make an impact.
Because when it comes to sharing comfort and love with the community, a therapy dog truly makes a difference.