Sometimes Support Has Four Paws
How Paws & Pals is Creating New Paths to Mental Health Support and Connection.
Sometimes support begins with conversation.
Sometimes it begins with connection.
And sometimes, it begins with a dog quietly sitting beside someone who finally feels safe enough to exhale.
Connection looks different for everyone. For some individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, traditional settings can feel overwhelming, stressful, or difficult to navigate. Building trust can take time. Feeling comfortable enough to participate, connect, or open up can take even longer.
That is why programs that offer different ways to connect matter.
Through a new Mental Health IDD Program funded by eitas, Paws & Pals is creating opportunities for adults with disabilities to engage in calm, welcoming, and relationship centered environments alongside therapy dogs and animal assisted supports. These spaces are designed to help individuals feel safe, supported, and connected in ways that feel comfortable for them.
Support does not work the same way for everyone, and services should reflect that.
At Paws & Pals, the focus is not on rushing connection. It is about creating space for it. Sometimes connection begins with words. Other times, it begins with presence, routine, trust, or the quiet comfort an animal can provide.
Research continues to show that interacting with dogs can help reduce stress and anxiety while encouraging social connection and emotional comfort. Sometimes a wagging tail or a quiet presence can help create the kind of calm that makes connection feel possible.
Leading the program is Tonia Haakonstad, CEO, Founder, and Peer Specialist at Paws & Pals. By her side is SAM, a Certified Therapy Dog who helps create calm, connection focused environments where individuals can feel safe, supported, and welcomed. Together, they help create opportunities for trust and connection in ways that feel natural and approachable.
Recently, the eitas team had the opportunity to visit Paws & Pals during their Open House and experience the welcoming environment firsthand. Throughout the space, visitors had opportunities to engage with SAM, interact with staff and peers, and learn more about the growing opportunities available through the program. The atmosphere reflected the heart of the program itself: calm, welcoming, and centered around belonging.
“Every individual deserves the opportunity to feel confident, connected, and supported in ways that work for them,” said Tonia Haakonstad, CEO, Founder, and Peer Specialist at Paws & Pals. “Our unique one of a kind Mental Health IDD Program empowers individuals to thrive while fostering connection, confidence, and a sense of belonging every step of the way. We are changing the IDD community one PAW at a time.”
Programs like this are an important reminder that meaningful support can look different for everyone.
At eitas, we are proud to partner with organizations like Paws & Pals that continue creating thoughtful, accessible ways for people to build connection, strengthen wellbeing, and participate more fully in their communities.
This Mental Health IDD Program through Paws & Pals is available at no cost for individuals eligible for services through eitas.
To learn more or ask questions, contact:
tonia@pawsandpals.org or visit
https://www.pawsandpals.org/