Boots & paws
Boots & Paws provides free companion puppies
Dog ownership provides therapeutic benefits, including reducing stress & anxiety, easing depression & loneliness, and encouraging regular exercise.
We also offer contracted facility dog visitation events, bringing comfort, morale boosts, and stress reduction to businesses, schools, and communities.
Companion Puppies
Companion dogs are more than just pets — they offer the guardian & their family connection as well as a commitment to routines, adding a sense of purpose & accomplishment, and facilitating social interactions.
facility dogs
Our specially trained facility dogs visit corporate events, educational institutions, community gatherings to offer their special touch of warmth, comfort, and relaxation. Facility dogs are available for contracted event visits only.
Impact & Metrics
Why we are here
“You changed my life. Getting her made me a happier person, hands down. I have more accountability, I wake up earlier, I train more frequently, and I feel like I have more purpose in my day to day.”
"Teddy Boy is such a joy... his happy-go-lucky way is contagious... we are so blessed to have him as a part of our family."
Companion dogs are more than just pets — they ultimately help both the guardian as well as the whole family.
As companions, these dogs are intended to integrate with the whole household unit, helping everyone to establish better routines and experience the therapeutic benefits of dog ownership.
Our companion puppies are awarded along with a comprehensive care package, with a 12 month timeline of financial & expert support. Our staff has a regular cadence of follow-ups with each guardian to ensure they and their dog are doing well.
Companion Puppies
Companion Puppy Care Package
We provide a Puppy Training Manual and reimbursements (up to a set total) for a range of needs to ensure the guardians & their new companions are well supported:
Crate, bowls, brush, shampoo & food
Veterinary expenses
Pet insurance
Microchip + 1 year subscription
Professional training sessions
Recipient travel expenses
Our specially trained facility dogs are compassionate canines dedicated to bringing joy, comfort, and relaxation to a variety of settings. With their gentle demeanor and loving presence, our facility dogs are perfect for creating a soothing and supportive atmosphere.
We specialize in contracted facility dog visitation events, tailoring our services to meet the unique needs of each occasion. Whether it's a corporate event, educational setting, or a community gathering, our facility dogs add a special touch of warmth and comfort.
Please note that while our facility dogs are available for a variety of events and settings, we do not offer facility dogs for permanent placement.
Facility Dog Visits
Community Support
Our facility dogs volunteer their time & love at local Hudson Valley police departments and fire stations, providing support and comfort to those who serve us all.
Regional Availability
Our services are offered locally throughout the greater Hudson Valley Region of New York.
Customized Experiences
We work closely with our clients to create a customized experience. Our goal is to ensure that our facility dogs meet the specific needs and preferences of your audience, making every interaction meaningful and memorable.
Benefits of a Facility Dog Visit
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Stress Reduction
Trained dogs help reduce stress and anxiety. Their presence can help employees or students relax, especially during intense periods like deadlines, major project launches, or exams.
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Boosting Morale
The presence of a dog can improve mood and confidence, while offering a pleasant and unique break from the usual routine.
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Social Dynamics
Dogs can act as social catalysts, encouraging interaction among individuals who might not usually talk to each other. This can enhance team cohesion and improve communication.
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Physical Health
Interacting with dogs has been shown to lower blood pressure and release endorphins, creating a sense of well-being.
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Mental Health
Bringing a trained dog in can promote more open, easier conversations around mental health. It also shows an organization or institution’s commitment to mental health and well-being.
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Crisis & Trauma
After a crisis or traumatic event, trained dogs may help reduce stress & anxiety. We visit schools, offices, police & fire departments, hospitals, and other environments where people may benefit from their calming effect.
Help us share puppy Love
Make a donation today to support our companion and facility dog programs for military, veterans, first responders, and their families.
Everything we offer is provided free of charge to our guardians so your contribution truly makes a difference!
Sponsor a dog
Our companion puppies are provided free of cost to guardians, so the support of donations, volunteers, and sponsorships make it all possible. Thank you for your help!
We can help you set up an easy-to-use fundraising page, so you can collectively support a companion dog package with family, friends, or coworkers.
Meet the Boots & Paws Team
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Rachel Hill
Program Executive Director
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Cassie Baumgarth
Operations Manager
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Michele Massi
Administrative Specialist
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Nicole DeMattio
Events Specialist
A few of our Tales
Keep in Touch
Follow us on Instagram: @bootsnpawsgr