Therapy Dog Bentley
Health Heelers is more than just a therapy animal group. It is a premier therapy animal organization committed to bringing you an experience rich in quality, expertise and professionalism.
A commitment based in expertise
Health Heelers Founder, Laura Hey, is one of a handful of Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialists in the country. Laura blends a career of more than 30 years as a rehabilitation therapist and her certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy earned through a DePaul University partnership in 2001. Her experience in health care affords Laura a first-hand understanding of a facility or agency’s needs, as well as the needs of the patients, clients or residents you serve.
A commitment to ongoing learning
As the field of Animal Assisted Interventions grows, our Founder stays current in its trends and best practices:
has attended over 500 hours of classes, seminars and workshops by some of the most renowned experts in animal behavior, cognition, and emotion, science-based positive reinforcement training, and Animal-Assisted Interventions
participates in national and international work groups establishing standards of best-practice for the field
is a member of dog training and animal welfare groups and stays current on relevant issues addressed by these and other groups
A commitment to address potential risks upfront to decrease liabilities
There are risks and rewards in bringing live animals into public institutions. Health Heelers proactively implements measures to prevent infection and address concerns regarding fears, allergies and other potential risks
A commitment to provide the best therapy animal teams (registered therapy animals and their volunteer handlers)
Health Heelers teams are registered with Pet Partners, a leading national therapy animal organization having the most stringent registration requirements. Pet Partners teams must pass an evaluation every two years.
A commitment to serve each facility's specific needs and goals
Having worked in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, nursing homes, mental health and community agencies serving people with special needs, Laura's "inside" knowledge brings a valuable perspective that guides her as she designs and implements programs to meet your needs and interests.
A commitment to assist professionals interested in learning about Animal-Assisted Therapy/Interventions
As a past rehabilitation therapist, Laura has educated numerous counselors, therapists and teachers in the most effective application of Animal-Assisted Interventions. Professionals learn how to apply Animal-Assisted Interventions within the context of their professional role to enhance and expand their effectiveness and services.