Empowering Special Needs Students Through Therapy Dogs

Your support provides therapy sessions to students with special needs, at no cost to their families.

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Why It Matters

At TheraPets, we provide Occupational Therapy and Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) to special education students and their families in Northern Illinois—at no cost to them.

But recent funding cuts have put our program at risk. Without support, we may have to reduce or stop these life-changing therapy sessions.

Many of our students are non-verbal and in self-contained classrooms with Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs). Traditional therapy can be challenging, but AAT offers something unique: a chance for students to give and receive affection as part of their healing process.

Every therapy session is more than just a moment with an animal—it’s a lifeline for confidence, connection, and healing.

Your support will help continue this vital work.

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The Science Behind AAT

Research has shown that interaction with therapy animals can lead to:

✅ Less Anxiety – AAT helps reduce stress and promote emotional regulation.

✅ Improved Social Skills – Encourages connection and communication.

✅ Reduced Agitation & Aggression – A calming presence fosters a sense of security.

✅ Better Motor Skills – Activities with animals improve coordination and movement.

✅ Lower Tactile Sensitivity – Helps children become more comfortable with touch.

✅ Rebuilding Trust After Trauma – Beneficial for PTSD and emotional healing.

✅ Health Benefits – Can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

✅ Enhanced Attention & Focus – Supports cognitive development and learning.

Every therapy session is more than just a moment with an animal, it’s a step toward confidence, connection, and healing.

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Wear Your Support: Therapy Dog Hoodies

Support Therapy Dogs with Every Purchase

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The Science Behind AAT

TheraPets.org provides free Occupational Therapy and Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) to special education students in Northern Illinois. But with recent funding cuts, we need your help to keep our therapy programs running.

  • 🐾 Supports therapy animals' care, training, and supplies
  • 🏫 Provides therapy sessions for students at no cost to families
  • ❤️ 100% of donations go directly to our programs

Every dollar makes a difference! Help us continue providing these life-changing therapy sessions.

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