Paws and Hearts Celebrates 26 Years Bringing Therapy Dogs to Patients Across the Coachella Valley

A Coachella Valley nonprofit is celebrating 26 years of bringing comfort and companionship to patients through the healing power of therapy dogs.

Paws and Hearts, founded in 2000 by Richard Waxman, has grown into a valleywide animal-assisted therapy program that connects trained volunteers and their dogs with people receiving medical care across the region. The visits are designed to offer comfort, emotional support and moments of joy for patients facing health challenges.

For many, those visits make a meaningful difference. Waxman says the gratitude from patients and families is what keeps volunteers motivated year after year.

The program relies on dedicated volunteers like Sandy Young, who says the experience is rewarding for both people and their pets. She says sharing time with patients not only brightens someone’s day but also strengthens the bond between handler and dog.

Paws and Hearts regularly brings therapy teams into health centers, where simple interactions — a visit, a smile or time spent with a friendly dog — can provide emotional relief for those who may be isolated, bed-bound or undergoing treatment.

Now, as the organization marks more than two decades of service, leaders say they’re hoping to grow their volunteer base. They’re encouraging community members who have well-trained, friendly dogs and a desire to help others to consider joining the program.

For volunteers, Waxman says the reward is simple: knowing they’ve made someone’s day a little brighter.

Reporting in the Coachella Valley, Kai Beach, NBC Palm Springs.

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