Paws with a purpose: Hand in Paw brings therapy animals to central Alabama

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - Hand in Paw is a local nonprofit that pairs trained volunteers and their dogs with patients in hospitals, bringing comfort, connection and smiles to sick faces.

Hand in Paw was founded 30 years ago by Beth Franklin, who worked as the Executive Director at the Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS). Franklin knew from her time at GBHS just how powerful the human-animal bond can be, which inspired her vision to bring animal-assisted therapy to Central Alabama.

For many volunteers, getting involved starts with a simple desire to give back. One couple said they decided to volunteer once their children were in school full-time, hoping to spend time together while serving the community. After hearing about Hand in Paw, they adopted Buddy, a Havanese, and began the training process. Years later, they are still visiting patients at Children’s of Alabama, only now with two pups in tow.

Volunteers say even short visits can brighten a patient’s day, especially for children who are hospitalized for long periods and spend their days surrounded by procedures and constant check-ins. For those who work and volunteer with Hand in Paw, the impact is visible in everyday moments through trained therapy teams who show up where comfort is needed most.

Interested in volunteering? Visit Hand in Paw’s website here to begin the screening and training process.

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