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Paws to Connect
Volume 1, Issue 4: Summer 2026
| | Celebrating the human-animal bond since 1982 | | |
Hello, PAL community!
As we welcome the dog days of August, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, supporters, partners, and friends whose generosity and dedication make PAL’s mission possible. Because of you, therapy dogs bring comfort, connection, and joy to thousands of people across the DC metro area each year.
I hope you'll take a moment to paws and browse the adorable photos and heartwarming stories in our annual Dog Photo Contest, which is open to all dogs -- PALs & PALlies alike. Show your favorites some love by casting a vote (votes start at just $1).
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And if your pup isn't in the running yet, there's still time to join the fun! Every dog entry and every vote makes PAL’s work possible, helping to train, deploy, and support 160 therapy dog-handler teams who visit more than 140 schools, libraries, hospitals, senior living communities, and other sites each year.
The 12 dogs with the most votes as of 5:00 p.m. ET on August 9 will win a professional photo session with Hannele Lahti and be featured in the 2027 PALendar. All contestants will receive a calendar, and all PALly contestants will receive an exclusive, embroidered PALly bandana to proudly show their support for PAL all year long.
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Thank you for being such an important part of the PAL family and for helping us continue to spread smiles, comfort, and compassion throughout our community.
Enjoy the summer edition of Paws to Connect!
| | Heather Gomes, C-AAIS
Executive Director | | |
- Welcome New PAL Therapy Teams!
- PAL Board News
- Get to Know a PAL Team
- Pawprints in the Community
- Did You Know?
- In PAL News
- Everyday Giving
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- Will Power
- PALs around Town
- Paws and Applause
- Get Your Official PAL Merch
- Got Historical PAL Photos?
- Our Community Needs You!
- Words to Wag By
| | Welcome New PAL Therapy Teams! | | |
PAL is thrilled to welcome our newest volunteer therapy dog-handler teams: Tim & PAL Rufus, Kate & PAL Abby, and Kristine & PAL Maggie! Together, they are already spreading comfort, connection, and smiles through visits to schools, hospitals, senior communities, and other settings throughout our region.
Each team brings its own unique strengths, personality, and special brand of joy to the PAL community. We are grateful for their commitment to our mission and look forward to seeing the many lives they will touch through the healing power of the human-animal bond.
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We are thrilled to announce that Jane Zimmerman is PAL's new Interim Board President. Jane has been part of the PAL family since 2014, when she began volunteering with her dog, Pepper (right). As Jane often says, volunteering with PAL "became—and remains—a life-changing experience." Jane brings to this role a wealth of leadership experience, a deep commitment to service, and a longtime passion for PAL's mission.
Throughout her distinguished career, Jane has dedicated herself to public service and leadership. She has served as a senior U.S. diplomat, an international nonprofit executive, a college professor and educator, and a civic leader and volunteer. Today, she is a lecturer at the University of Virginia's Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy.
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Jane is married, has a son, and often jokes that, much like her flat-coated retriever, Skipper (left), she is "a work in progress." Her humility, warmth, and sense of humor are just a few of the qualities that make her such a valued colleague and a pleasure to work with.
We are grateful for Jane's unwavering dedication to PAL and are excited about the leadership, insight, and enthusiasm she will bring to this role. We look forward to her continued contributions as we advance our mission and deepen our impact throughout the community.
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We are also delighted to announce that Bill Magrath has joined the PAL Board of Directors. Bill had a 30 year career as a natural resource economist at the World Bank, working on forestry and agriculture projects and leading the Bank's work on combating illegal logging, wildlife smuggling, and natural resource-based corruption. Prior to joining the World Bank, Bill worked for U.S. government agencies, not-for-profit development and research groups and universities. Since his retirement, he has taught at his alma mater, Michigan State University. He and PAL Bixie, his English Springer Spaniel, have volunteered with PAL since 2022. Bill and his wife, Susan Shen have a grown (human) daughter and split their time between Washington, DC and Saint Michaels, Maryland.
| PAL is looking to grow its Board of Directors. If you have experience or an interest in nonprofit governance, fundraising, finance, marketing, law, community outreach, animal welfare, human health, or social services, we’d love to hear from you. Joining PAL’s Board is a meaningful opportunity to amplify our impact and help shape the organization’s future. To learn more, please email heather@peopleanimalslove.org. | | Betsy W. and her pup Smiley have been a PAL team since 2023. We asked Betsy to tell us about her volunteer service and teaming with her dog. | | |
What inspired you to become a volunteer with PAL?
I’d been aware of PAL for a long time but never had the schedule or dog to join. I observed Smiley’s interaction with residents at my mother’s memory care residence and that clinched my motivation to volunteer. smiley and I took a therapy team skills class at Humane Rescue Alliance, which helped prepare us for the Team Evaluation and serving as a therapy team.
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How would you describe Smiley’s temperament and what makes her a great therapy dog?
Smiley's an old soul in a younger dog’s body. She’s sensitive to what a person needs, and gentle.
| Betsy and PAL Smiley visited the Wendt Center Grief Camp and helped kids cope with loss. | |
How do you and Smiley prepare for a visit? Do you have a ritual?
In addition to the bandana, Smiley has a separate collar and leash for our visits. I say, “time to go to work” and she’s ready to go.
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What does Smiley enjoy doing when she’s not working?
Playing with my son’s dog, Anya. She’s a character and Smiley loves having a “sister.”
| | | Betsy and PAL Smiley are regulars at the University of Maryland. | |
What do you enjoy most about volunteering as a therapy dog handler?
So many things! My relationship with Smiley has been strengthened. I am constantly in awe of her interactions with people. We love meeting the people at each of our visits. We enjoy the other volunteers and their dogs. And finally, Heather and the PAL team are awesome!
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What types of places do you and Smiley visit through PAL? Do you have a favorite?
We’ve been to a variety of DC schools in different neighborhoods. We’ve really enjoyed University of Maryland and always look forward to our visits with the students, staff and regular PAL volunteers.
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Can you share a memorable moment from one of your visits?
We went to an elementary school class of students with autism. We sat on the floor with one of the teachers and let the students approach Smiley in their own time. One of the children was afraid of Smiley and didn’t want to approach her. Over time, the student came closer and closer. The teacher put his hand on Smiley and the child’s hand on top of his. Eventually the child chose to pet Smiley on her own. A moment I’ll never forget.
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What would you say to someone considering becoming a PAL volunteer?
Do it!
| | Pawprints in the Community | | |
PAL Tina
PAL Dog Since: 2020
Breed: Shih Tzu
Age: 8
Visits: Bishop O'Connell High School, Old Firehouse Teen Center, Eunice Kennedy Shriver Program, and the U.S. State Department, among others.
Fun Fact: Tina loves cats! She also loves going to the groomer and having her ponytail done up.
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PAL Sadie
PAL Dog Since: 2020
Breed: Labrador Retriever
Age: 9
Visits: McLean High School, Armed Forces Retirement Home, U.S. Capitol Police, among others.
Fun Fact: Sadie has a stuffed flamingo named Lola that she got when she was six months old. The day she got it she started sucking on it like a pacifier. Nine years later, Sadie still pacifies herself with Lola (Lola #7).
PAL Sadie is in the Dog Photo Contest! You can show your love for Sadie and other PALs & PALlies by voting for them here: https://www.gogophotocontest.com/peopleanimalslove
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The Science of Co-Regulation With Our Pets
by Betty Argenbright, Therapy Dog Program Manager, PAL
Have you ever noticed that your dog seems to know when you're feeling stressed? Or perhaps you've found yourself feeling calmer after spending time together?
Co-regulation is the process by which individuals influence and support one another's emotional state. While co-regulation is often discussed in human relationships, research suggests it can also occur between people and their pets.
Through shared experiences, body language, touch, and emotional awareness, dogs and humans can affect one another's stress levels and overall well-being. A calm dog may help a person feel more grounded, while a relaxed and attentive handler can help a dog feel safe and secure.
Therapy dogs are masters of co-regulation. Through their calm presence, responsiveness, and ability to connect with people, they can help create moments of comfort, emotional balance, and connection. Perhaps this is one reason therapy dogs are so special — they have an incredible ability to meet people where they are, offering reassurance, support, and a steady presence when it is needed most.
Whether it's a quiet moment on the couch, a walk around the neighborhood, or a special visit, the bond we share with our dogs is about more than companionship—it is a relationship built on connection, trust, and mutual support.
Sources
G. Bargigli, L. Frassineti, P. Baragli, C. Scopa, A. Vignoli, and A. Lanata, “ Evidence of Physiological Comodulation During Human–Animal Interaction: A Systematic Review.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences 1560, no. 1 (2026): e70299. https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.70299
Koskela, A., Törnqvist, H., Somppi, S. et al. Behavioral and emotional co-modulation during dog–owner interaction measured by heart rate variability and activity. Sci Rep 14, 25201 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-76831-x
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PAL is proud to be a new member of Animal Assisted Services International (AASI), a global nonprofit association that brings together practitioners, individuals, and organizations dedicated to advancing the field of Animal Assisted Services (AAS). Through collaboration, education, and lifelong learning, AASI works to improve interactions among AAS professionals and volunteers, the animals who partner with them, and the individuals who benefit from their services.
AASI provides comprehensive Standards of Practice, professional Competencies, and a peer-reviewed Accreditation process for its full members. The organization fosters international collaboration to advance best practices, training, and research in the field. Members benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, including monthly webinars, annual conferences, and a worldwide network committed to strengthening the impact of Animal Assisted Services.
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Everyday Giving
The Everyday Giving Pledge is a simple commitment to give more and give local
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PAL is proud to partner with Spur Local, a DC-based nonprofit dedicated to inspiring people to invest in their local communities. Did you know there is now a permanent charitable tax deduction for donors who do not itemize? Eligible taxpayers can deduct up to $1,000 in cash charitable donations as a single filer, or up to $2,000 as a joint filer.
We hope this expanded deduction encourages you to consider increasing your giving — and to support local nonprofits like PAL that make a direct impact close to home. To learn more and take the pledge, visit EverydayGivingPledge.org.
| Will Power: Create a Lasting Legacy | | |
Did you know August is National Make-A-Will Month?
Including PAL in your will or trust is a meaningful way to ensure that future generations can continue to experience the healing power of therapy dogs. Legacy gifts help sustain our mission of bringing comfort, connection, and support to those who need it most.
Three simple ways to leave a legacy gift:
Designate a specific dollar amount
Leave a percentage of your estate
Give the remainder of your estate after other gifts are distributed
One of the benefits of a planned gift is flexibility. You can update your intentions at any time as your circumstances change. We encourage you to consult your attorney or financial advisor to determine the option that best fits your goals.
There are many ways to support PAL, whether through a one-time donation, monthly giving, or a planned gift. Visit our Ways to Give page to learn more about how you can make a lasting impact.
| | PAL participated in two outreach events this summer. Maybe you saw us at Paws in the Park in Gaithersburg, Maryland or Animal Expedition in Reston, Virginia. Community outreach events like these are great opportunities to spread awareness about PAL's work, showcase our therapy dogs, and recruit new volunteers. | | PAL Finley at Paws in the Park in Gaithersburg, MD. | | PAL Maisie (left) and PAL Rufus (right) at Animal Expedition in Reston, VA. | | |
A Paw on Patrol
Meghan Percival and her Therapy Dog Support the Community
Therapy team Meghan and PAL Rory were featured in McLean High School's newsmagazine. Click on the image to read the article.
Meghan and Rory joined PAL in 2024. Meghan was named "Rookie of the Year" for her commitment and dedication.
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Susan Bundock and PAL Bella, a PAL team since 2022, make regular visits with older adults at the Kensington Club. Susan and Bella were recognized at a recent Jewish Council for the Aging ceremony, where they received the Schlossenberg Spirit of Kensington Club Volunteer Award.
We are deeply grateful to Susan and PAL Bella for their continued service, compassion, and commitment. It is an honor to celebrate their impact and the meaningful connection they bring to the community.
| | Get Your Official PAL Merch | | Proceeds support visits from PAL therapy dog teams in the metro DC area, improving mental health, reducing loneliness, and strengthening community well-being. | | Got Historical PAL Photos? | |
Next year will mark 45 years of People Animals Love! Time flies when you're joyously connecting people with animals and harnessing the power of the human-animal bond to better people's lives. As we prepare to celebrate our 45th birthday, we could use your help gathering snapshots, stories, and program highlights from the past four and a half decades, especially the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. If you were a volunteer, staff member, or community partner during PAL's earlier years, we would love to hear from you. Please email info@peopleanimalslove.org to share historical photos and fond memories. Former executive director James Haworth has kindly volunteered to help preserve PAL's history, and he would be happy to connect with you by phone as well. Thank you!
| | You don't have to partner with a therapy dog to contribute to PAL's mission and work. Below are a few ways you can get involved. | | |
Volunteer — No Dog Required!
We’re looking for passionate individuals to support PAL behind the scenes:
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Social Media Volunteer. Are you creative and social media savvy? Help us craft engaging posts and reels that highlight PAL’s impact and build community connections.
Ready to make a difference? Fill out our volunteer application or email info@peopleanimalslove.org.
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Amplify Our Voice Online
- Follow us on social media. Like, comment on, and share our posts to spread awareness and connect others to our mission.
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Share the Love
Forward this newsletter to animal-loving, civic-minded friends, family, and colleagues.
| | "I have found that when you are deeply troubled, there are things you get from the silent devoted companionship of a dog that you can get from no other source." ~Doris Day | | |
| The demand for therapy dog visits is higher than ever. Your gift helps make it possible to train, register, and field more therapy teams. Thank you for making a pawsitive difference in our community with a gift to PAL today! | | If this newsletter was forwarded to you and you wish to receive future issues and updates from PAL, please subscribe by clicking the button below. | | The mission of People Animals Love is to use the power of the human-animal bond to comfort the lonely, ease the pain of the sick, and enrich people's lives. | | | | |
