Week after week, Thomas can’t wait until Tuesdays when his afternoons are spent with Riley, a lovable Labrador. For the past 16 years, Ms. Harriett has brought over eight different therapy dogs who have taken turns showing up for our kids—but for Thomas, Riley is the one he waits for most.
Thomas doesn’t talk much about why at first. But it shows in the way he lights up the moment Riley walks into the room. What he looks forward to most isn’t complicated: the warm, slobbery kisses, the steady weight of Riley leaning in close, and the kind of joy that only a dog can bring when she’s fully present with you.
And yet, it’s about much more than hugs.
Cunningham Recreation Therapies (CTRS) staff Morgan shares that time with Riley is quietly shaping Thomas in powerful ways.
“He’s learning how to stay calm, how to slow down, and how to be patient,” she explained. During sessions, Thomas practices using a steady, calm voice to guide Riley through simple commands like “stay.”
When Riley listens, she’s rewarded with a treat—and Thomas is rewarded too, with Riley’s enthusiastic, wet kisses and a sense of shared accomplishment. In those small exchanges, something deeper is happening. Thomas is learning that his tone matters. That patience works. That communication doesn’t have to be rushed or loud to be effective.
Ms. Harriett notices it too—the way Thomas is beginning to show more respect, more kindness and more willingness to pause, listen and connect. What may seem like a simple interaction with a dog is actually helping Thomas build important coping and relationship skills that will serve him far beyond Tuesday afternoons.
These moments of growth, connection and healing are made possible because of caring supporters like you. Your generosity helps provide enriching therapeutic experiences that complement the clinical care our youth receive every day. Thank you for investing in children like Thomas and creating opportunities for them to heal, learn and grow. Because of your support, Tuesday afternoons are filled with more than smiles and wagging tails—they are filled with hope, progress and the promise of a brighter future.