Canines Assisted Therapy (CAT) is a nonprofit organization based in Oakland Park, FL, that provides certified therapy dogs to serve various communities in South Florida. Founded with a mission to improve the lives of individuals through the assistance of therapy dogs, CAT is dedicated to bringing comfort, companionship, and joy to people in need.
The organization’s therapy dogs work with a range of populations, including children, the elderly, individuals with special needs, and people undergoing medical treatment. CAT partners with schools, hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and other facilities to bring the therapeutic benefits of trained therapy dogs to those who can benefit from the calming, supportive presence of a canine friend.
Canines Assisted Therapy also provides programs specifically designed for children with special needs, veterans, and individuals coping with stress or trauma. The organization’s therapy teams are carefully trained to ensure that they meet high standards for safety, professionalism, and effectiveness, and each therapy dog-handler team is certified to work in various environments.
Through their work, CAT helps promote mental well-being, emotional support, and positive social interactions, using therapy dogs as a bridge to foster meaningful connections. Their programs have had a significant impact in South Florida, creating moments of joy, reducing stress, and making a positive difference in the lives of countless individuals.