Our Hearts of Gold therapy teams bring the healing power of canine companionship to our communities throughout mid-Florida.
Our Mission
At GRRMF Hearts of Gold, we believe in the healing power of the human-canine bond. Our mission is to enhance the emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of individuals through the compassionate presence of trained therapy dogs. We are dedicated to creating meaningful interactions that provide comfort, reduce stress, and foster connection in healthcare, educational, and community settings. Whether comforting a child, lifting the spirits of a hospital patient, or bringing joy and companionship to a senior, our therapy dogs serve as four-legged ambassadors of kindness, hope, and healing.
By strengthening the bond between people and therapy animals, Hearts of Gold strives to enrich lives, inspire hope, and create lasting, positive impacts throughout the communities we serve. With every visit, we aim to create moments of comfort, connection, and joy—one paw at a time.
More than 155 trained therapy dog teams volunteer their time to regularly visit:
- Care facilities
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Libraries
- Workplaces
- Fire Stations
- Conventions
- Community events
Our therapy teams are GRRMF ambassadors, out in the community uplifting spirits and healing hearts every day of the year. We’re recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) to certify dog-handler teams for canine therapy work.
Join our therapy team as a dog-handler duo!
While some of our therapy dogs are GRRMF alumni, it’s not a requirement to join the team. We have many different breeds, from Chihuahuas to St. Bernard’s. Click here to learn more and decide if you and your dog are a possible match. Complete this request to register for a therapy team screening.
Support our paws on the ground
Support our paws on the ground as a photographer, video creator or administrative support volunteer.
Schedule a therapy team visit
Click here to submit a request and a coordinator will follow up with you as soon as possible. Please allow 4-6 weeks advance notice to match dogs and handlers to meet your needs. If we have visited your location before, please allow 4 weeks for scheduling.
See our therapy teams in action
Check out our Hearts of Gold YouTube channel. Subscribe to be alerted when new videos appear!
Heartfelt words from our RESCUE HEROES
“I love helping children become enthusiastic readers and Cooper loves their hugs and attention.”
— Volunteer Mary Wells