Certified Therapy Dog Joins Efforts to Support Child Victims in Florida

Catch the Wave of Hope, an organization dedicated to raising awareness, providing education, and offering survivor support, collaborates with children, parents, law enforcement, and community professionals to connect survivors with therapy and various resources.

Hanalei, a Labrador-Boxer mix, was rescued from Big Dog Ranch Rescue at 3 months old and is set to turn two in November. She will work primarily at the Treasure Coast Child Advocacy Center, providing comfort to children during forensic interviews and therapy sessions, and potentially during court proceedings.

Sarah Marie Henry, the executive director and Hanalei's owner and handler, highlighted the increasing demand for therapeutic options for children. "We have just kind of heard this overwhelming need for more therapeutic options, especially for children," she said.

According to Henry, Hanalei has shown a natural affinity for connecting with children. She underwent training and assessment to become certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Henry noted that children, including those with various learning disabilities, have already responded positively to Hanalei's presence.

Hanalei's rescue background adds an extra layer of meaning to her role. "I think that she just has a different understanding because of where she came from and what she’s overcome to now be here," Henry stated.

Catch the Wave of Hope plans to introduce two additional therapy dogs, with one already in the onboarding process. Henry aims to provide children with an additional source of comfort during difficult times. "She’ll be there to help encourage communication when kids are having a harder time articulating what maybe happened to them," Henry explained.

Despite the challenging nature of their work, Henry emphasized a hopeful message: "What’s happened has happened, but there is hope." The organization also provides educational resources on their website and offers guidance for those in need. People can follow Hanalei's journey on her Instagram page.