Meet the Therapy Dog Team

The Human 

Keith

Scottsdale, AZ

Current Occupation

Dog Trainer

Certificates & Training

Member APDT, LIMA Compliant, AKC Evaluator, AZ Dog Smart Academy, HARTT, Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Owner Sonoran Dog Care, Founder Scottsdale Golden Gang, Fetch Foundation

How did you get started in therapy dog work? 

Everything changed for me at a seminar on training diabetic alert dogs. During a demonstration, two service dogs alerted at the exact same moment to a woman in the audience whose blood sugar had become dangerously elevated. As she lay down, her service dog stayed focused on its job. Then, something remarkable happened. A Golden Retriever quietly walked over, lay beside her, and never left her side until she was feeling better. No one asked him to. No one gave him a command. He simply knew she needed comfort.

I was speechless. In that moment, I witnessed the incredible gift dogs have—not only to help us physically, but to bring calm, connection, and hope when we need it most. That inspired me to dedicate my a large portion of my time to training therapy dogs. Sharing their unconditional love and comfort with others has become one of the greatest privileges and most meaningful ways I can give back to my community.

What are you most passionate about in this work?

There is something truly special about hearing a complete stranger smile and say, "This is the best part of my day." Those simple words are a beautiful reminder of why I do what I do. Watching the worry and stress melt away as someone hugs or pets a therapy dog never gets old. In those quiet moments, you can almost feel a sense of calm replace the weight they were carrying. Dogs have an incredible gift for meeting people exactly where they are, offering comfort, connection, and unconditional love without ever saying a word. Being able to share that gift with others is one of the greatest joys and privileges of my life.

Where do you currently volunteer or visit?

We visit hospitals, assisted-living facilities, schools, and children’s events, we even visit with retailers who just need a warm smile but our true passion lies in first responders. Sheldon and I dedicate a significant amount of our time to visiting police officers, firefighters, 911 operators, medics, and anyone who works on the front lines, sacrificing  to save others.

Share a specific visit or moment that has truly stayed with you?

One visit has stayed with me ever since. Sheldon and I were at a hospital during Nurses Week when a young woman approached us in tears. Her grandfather had passed away just 20 minutes earlier. She knelt down, wrapped her arms around Sheldon, and cried. For nearly ten minutes, neither of us moved or said a word. Sheldon simply stayed with her. When she left she was visibly better. I think about that day often and it’s one of the reasons I believe so deeply in the work we do.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your work? 

I always remind people that even therapy and service dogs aren’t robots. They’re wonderfully imperfect, just like we are. They have good days, goofy days, and moments when they make mistakes. But through it all, they lead with love, and in the end, that’s what matters most.

The Therapy Pup

Dog's Name 

Sheldon

Nicknames

Uncle Sheldon

Breed

Golden Retriever

Age

4

Male

How did you and your dog first meet?

Through our friend and SGG team member Nicole and Crush (she’s the Breeder!)

Describe your dog's personality in three words

Hungry, Loving, Velcro

What is your dog's superpower during visits? 

He knows where he’s needed. He feels it

Favorite Treats

Keith Treats

Favorite Toys or Activities

His Sister Piper

Biggest quirk or funniest habit?

He likes to grab other dog’s leashes and walk them for a bit...see Beau

If your dog could talk, what would they say to the people they visit?

Hi Uncle Sheldon is here, let’s hug it out together for as long as you need…I can take it just let it out

On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate your dog’s silliness? (1 = Total Professional, 5 = Certified Goofball)

8.9

The Human 

Patricia

Paradise Valley, AZ

Current Occupation

Dog Mom

Certificates & Training

Sonoran Dog Care, AKC Star Puppy, AKC CGC, Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Pet Partners

How did you get started in therapy dog work? 

I began my journey in therapy dog work about 10 years ago when I connected with an organization called Gabriel's Angels. After retiring my two dogs, years later I chose to raise a puppy specifically as a therapy dog.

What are you most passionate about in this work?

My passion lies in witnessing the joy on someone's face when they feel the unconditional love of a dog. There are vast applications for animal assisted therapy, as dogs can uplift spirits, calm anxiety, and bring happiness to people's lives.

Where do you currently volunteer or visit?

In the past, I've volunteered at preschools and grade schools, as well as junior high, working with children who may require some extra special love. Currently, I am open to working in any area of dog therapy; however, my heart is particularly with children and individuals facing anxiety.

Share a specific visit or moment that has truly stayed with you?

 It's tough to pinpoint a specific moment because there have been countless memorable experiences, but the most rewarding is when someone tells me, "Your therapy dog has made my day today."

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your work? 

I have a natural inclination to assist those dealing with flight anxiety.

The Therapy Pup

Dog's Name 

Beau

Nicknames

Baby Beau, Bo Bo, Bawser

Breed

Golden Retriever

Age

2

Birthday

8/4/2024

Male

How did you and your dog first meet?

Through his breeder.

Describe your dog's personality in three words

Lovable, sweet, happy.

What is your dog's superpower during visits? 

He thrives on being the center of attention during therapy dog sessions.

Favorite Treats

Cheese and Keith Treats

Favorite Toys or Activities

Shoes, but stuffed animals are his secondary choice.

Biggest quirk or funniest habit?

He loves to grab personal items in his mouth and parade around the house with them.

If your dog could talk, what would they say to the people they visit?

Hi, I’m Baby Beau, and would you like to give me a belly rub???!

On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate your dog’s silliness? (1 = Total Professional, 5 = Certified Goofball)

5

The Human 

Matthew

Phoenix, AZ

Current Occupation

 Real Estate Sales and Investor

Certificates & Training

Sonoran Dog Care, AKC CGC, Alliance of Therapy Dogs

How did you get started in therapy dog work? 

My mother has had golden retriever therapy dogs, and I have always been fascinated by them. I dreamt of training my future golden retriever to participate in animal assisted therapy. When I got my first dog, he had the perfect temperament to become a therapy dog, so we decided to train him to form a therapy dog team.

What are you most passionate about in this work?

Since I was 18 months old, I have been overcoming challenges related to my disability. Thanks to my wonderful family, friends, and community, I’ve managed to lead a fulfilling life, which drives my desire to give back. Through dog therapy, I can train my dog to spend time with those struggling with various aspects of life; it brings smiles to their faces. Maverick loves people, especially kids, and we enjoy helping others whenever we can.

Where do you currently volunteer or visit?

I’ll volunteer anywhere that welcomes us. We have participated in private events, kids camps, and dispatch locations, and we look forward to spending time at hospitals, schools, assisted living facilities, and more.

Share a specific visit or moment that has truly stayed with you? 

Getting Maverick changed my life for the better. After working long hours, I was initially hesitant to bring a dog into that environment. But when my situation improved, I realized I needed a companion, and Maverick came to me quickly. He has truly enriched my life, and I cherish every moment with him.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your work? We love spending time with people and spreading joy through our therapy dog visits.

The Therapy Pup

Maverick

Nicknames 

Mav

Breed 

Golden Retriever

Age 

3.5

Birthday 

9/2/2022

Male

How did you and your dog first meet

I rescued Maverick from a family that did not understand the commitment of having a dog. I brought him home just before he turned 16 weeks old.

Describe your dog's personality in three words

Lovable, entertaining, excited

What is your dog's superpower during visits?

 He loves backing into people, making it feel like a cozy cuddle.

Favorite Treats

 Tasty Bones

Favorite Toys or Activities

Spending time with people and his favorite toys are big dinosaur figures.

Biggest quirk or funniest habit?

Whenever he receives a treat or a new bone, he rushes to the next room and chows down on it.

If your dog could talk, what would they say to the people they visit?

 He would make everyone laugh and ensure they feel loved, no matter their situation.

On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate your dog’s silliness? (1 = Total Professional, 5 = Certified Goofball)

4

The Human

Tracy

Scottsdale, AZ

Current Occupation

(Retired) CMO, United Way

Certificates & Training

Sonoran Dog Care, AKC Star Puppy, AKC CGC,  Alliance of Therapy Dogs

How did you get started in therapy dog work?  

Gus and I have spent the past year working with our trainer on general behavior and socialization skills. We were fortunate to have found a training program that provided exposure to a variety of situations and socialization opportunities. Early on, it became clear that Gus had the ideal temperament for therapy dog work. He genuinely loves interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds, and the more places we visited together, the more it became obvious that he was meant to bring joy through dog therapy. Pursuing therapy dog work felt like a natural next step for both of us.

What are you most passionate about in this work?  

Before retiring, I worked within the social services space and developed a lifelong commitment to volunteering in various capacities. What makes therapy dog work particularly rewarding is the opportunity to share Gus with others and witness the happiness, comfort, and connection he brings as a therapy dog. 

Where do you currently volunteer or visit?  

We have worked with older adults, children, assisted living facilities, temporary housing for patients receiving medical care away from home, and employees of social services agencies in stressful situations. We are open to any opportunities where we can help bring happiness and comfort.

Please share a specific visit or moment that has truly stayed with you?  

Gus was volunteering at an event where he met and greeted critically ill children. He met a young woman with physical disabilities who, although confined to a wheelchair with limited mobility and communication skills, expressed a clear interest in Gus. She smiled and truly seemed to enjoy his company, and I loved being able to share him as a therapy dog with her.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your work? We love spending time with people and making them smile.

The Therapy Pup

Gus

Nicknames

Gus Gus

Breed

Malti Poo

Age

 1

Birthday

 6/27/2025

Male

How long have you been a certified therapy dog team?

1 month

How did you and your dog first meet?  

We first met Gus in Iowa with his brothers and sisters when he was just 8 weeks old. He stood out as a charming, confident, sweet, and loving puppy. Over the next 4 weeks, we kept in touch via video until he officially became part of our family as a therapy dog.

Describe your dog's personality in three words 

Playful, affectionate, social.

What is your dog's superpower during visits?  

Gus is a charmer. People are drawn to his loving personality and cute appearance.

Favorite Treats

 Himalayan Yak Chews

Favorite Toys or Activities

 Gus loves going on walks and playing with toys that allow him to search for treats. 

Biggest quirk or funniest habit?  Gus will not eat his meals unless they are served on a snuffle mat, where he can forage and search for the food.

If your dog could talk, what would they say to the people they visit? 

Let’s play!

On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate your dog’s silliness? (1 = Total Professional, 5 = Certified Goofball)

5

Human Occupation / Day Job 

Stay at home Dog mom 

Certifications & Training

Sonoran Dog Care, Alliance of Therapy Dogs 

How did you get started in therapy dog work?

My journey into therapy dog work began with a simple goal: teaching Brody not to chase cars. What started as basic training quickly became something much more meaningful.

I’ve always had a heart for helping others. As a former kindergarten teacher, I found so much joy in working with children, making people smile, and creating moments of connection. I had always dreamed of having a dog who could bring comfort and happiness to others.

From the beginning, Brody had a gentle, intuitive nature. He seemed to naturally connect with people, and it became clear that he was special. As I watched his confidence and loving demeanor grow through training, I embraced the process wholeheartedly. Before long, what began as obedience training evolved into a calling to become a therapy dog team.

Today, Brody and I have the privilege of visiting schools, hospitals, and community organizations, sharing comfort, encouragement, and smiles wherever we go. It has been one of the most rewarding journeys of our lives.

What are you most passionate about in this work?

Helping others

Where do you volunteer or visit?

Hospital, memory care, kids camps... 

Share a moment or story that has stayed with you.

Number one moment is when someone tells me that we made their day. 

Another moment: Brody and I missed a visit to a kids camp and a fellow team member called me to let me know several kids wanted to know why Brody wasn’t there to visit them.  Definitely made me feel like Brody makes a difference. 

Dog's Name

Brody 

Nickname

Brody Bear 

Breed

Golden Retriever 

Age

5 

Birthday

11/5/2020 

Male 

How long have you been a certified therapy dog team?

5 months 

How did you and your dog first meet?

When we went to pick Brody out of his litter at Jovi's Goldens. 

Describe your dog's personality in 3 words.

Lover, friendly and cuddle bug 

What is your dog's superpower on visits? 

Brody’s superpower is his joyful spirit and his incredible ability to connect with people. He greets everyone with a big Golden Retriever smile, a tail that never stops wagging, and warm, gentle eye contact that makes each person feel like they’re the most important one in the room.

Whether someone is laughing, feeling lonely, or having a difficult day, Brody instinctively slows down, makes eye contact, and offers his calm, loving presence. He has a special gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved without saying a single word. His unconditional happiness is contagious, and wherever he goes, he leaves behind smiles, comfort, and a little more joy than he found.

On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate your dog's silliness?

1 = Total professional 5 = Certified goofball

5

Human Occupation / Day Job 

Realtor / Nanny / Dog mom 

Certifications & Training

Sonoran Dog Care, AKC Star Puppy, AKC CGC and Alliance of Therapy Dogs

How did you get started in therapy dog work?

I got started in dog therapy because I wanted to share Baxter’s gentle, loving personality with others and hopefully brighten someone’s day.  Seeing how much comfort and happiness a dog can bring has made it such a rewarding experience.  

Where do you volunteer or visit?

We currently volunteer at adult nursing homes, hospitals, schools, children’s day camps, and the City of Phoenix Fire Department  911 Call Center. We are always here to make our community happy and will volunteer wherever we are needed.

Share a moment or story that has stayed with you.

We have enjoyed every place so it is hard to have one specific place. However, while visiting the adult care nursing home there was a special moment between Baxter and a sweet lady living there.  She was quiet at first, but after spending several minutes petting Baxter, she smiled and started sharing stories about the dogs she loved throughout her life.  You could see her face brighten up as she talked about all the memories.  It was a beautiful reminder of a comfort and connection of therapy dog can bring.

Dog's Name

Baxter

Nickname

Buster, Munchie  

Breed

Golden Retriever 

Age

2

Male 

How did you and your dog first meet?

We were lucky to get Baxter from our breeder Jovi's Goldens. 

Favorite toys or activities

Baxter loves any toy that makes a noise. He loves to jump in the pool and play with his best friend, Dolly. 

Describe your dog's personality in 3 words.

Playful, friendly and snuggle bug 

What is your dog's superpower on visits? 

Baxter’s superpower is his ability to make anyone in the room feel comfortable with his calm and gentle presence. He’s always the first one in our group to lay down so his calming nature makes everyone else relax. 

Biggest quirk or funny habit

He loves to pick up a shoe and carry it throughout the house.  If you are missing a shoe, it’s most likely in his dog bed. 

If your dog could talk, what would they say to the people they visit?

Hi! I’m Baxter! I’m so happy to meet you! 

On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate your dog's silliness?

1 = Total professional 5 = Certified goofball

5

Human Occupation / Day Job 

Dog mom 

Certifications & Training

Sonoran Dog Care, AKC Star Puppy, AKC CGC and Alliance of Therapy Dogs

How did you get started in therapy dog work?

I got started in dog therapy to share Dolly’s sweet nature with others. She truly just wants to make you smile and have a better day. This has been such a rewarding experience for both of us!   

What are you most passionate about in this work?

What I’m most passionate about in therapy dog  work is making memories of comfort and happiness between people and dogs. Showing others some compassion with a loving dog will lift their spirits. 

Where do you volunteer or visit?

I am currently volunteering at the Phoenix Fire 911 Call Center, nursing homes, children’s day, camps, and schools. We are always here to make our community happy and will volunteer wherever we are needed.

Share a moment or story that has stayed with you.

Dolly really loves children.  At the children’s camp, Dolly became their snuggle bug.  She let all the children lay on her like she was their  big marshmallow pillow.  The special bond and happiness that she gave them that day left us smiling.  It’s always a beautiful reminder of the happiness and connection that  dogs can bring to others.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your work?

I will always be dedicated to bringing happiness and smiles to my community by sharing my time with others. 

Dog's Name

Dolly 

Nickname

Miss Dolly, Dolly Girl  

Breed

Golden Retriever 

Age

5

Female

How did you and your dog first meet?

We got her from our breeder Vivian 

Favorite toys or activities

Water toys because she loves to swim

Describe your dog's personality in 3 words.

Gentle Independent and Sweet 

Favorite treats

Frozen bananas, watermelon and any dog treat

What is your dog's superpower on visits? 

Dolly’s Super Power is she is a beauty queen! When she takes the runway her smile lights up every room!  

Biggest quirk or funny habit

She loves to sun bathe even when it’s 115 outside. She rings the doggy  doorbell at the back door to let us know when she wants out. 

If your dog could talk, what would they say to the people they visit?

Hi, my name is Dolly sometimes people like to call me, Miss Dolly or Dolly girl. I hope my gentle hugs and happy tail make your day a little brighter  

On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate your dog's silliness?

1 = Total professional 5 = Certified goofball

3

Occupation / Day Job

Chemistry teacher

Certifications & Training 

Sonoran Dog Care, AKC Star Puppy, AKC CGC, CGC Advanced, CGC Urban, Alliance of Therapy Dogs

How did you get started in therapy dog work?

My journey into therapy dog work started with a question I heard over and over: “Have you ever

considered therapy dog work with Crush?” Thanks to his calm, gentle nature and genuine love

for people, so many thought he would be a perfect fit.

When we began the evaluation process, we visited a hospital and memory care facility. It didn’t

take long to realize this was exactly where he belonged. Watching him instinctively connect with

patients and residents made it clear that he was born for this work.The experience was incredibly rewarding for both of us, but it holds an even deeper meaning for

me. Having had family members in memory care, I know firsthand how much the quiet

companionship of a dog can brighten someone’s day. Being able to give back in that way is truly

special.

Crush absolutely loves every visit, and seeing the happiness and comfort he brings to others

reminds me why we said “yes” in the first place.

Where do you volunteer or visit?

Hospital, memory care

Share a moment or story that has stayed with you.

While we were visiting the nurses at the hospital, one of the nurses looked at my dog and

jokingly said,

"That's my husband"

Dog's Name

Crush

Nickname

Crushy

Breed

Golden Retriever

Age

4

Birthday

12/14/2021

Male

How did you and your dog first meet?

Crush was the show pick of one of my litters.

Describe your dog's personality in 3 words.

Sweet, loving and cuddly

What is your dog's superpower on visits?

He’s a love magnet, because he attracts admirers, treats, and new friends wherever he goes.

Favorite treats

Duck jerky

Favorite toys or activities

Swimming and agility

Biggest quirk or funny habit

He’s a professional greeter. He likes to begin a meeting by shaking his paw and ends with a

hug.

If your dog could talk, what would they say to the people they visit?

Keep the pets coming!

On a scale of 1 to 5, how would you rate your dog's silliness?

1 = Total professional 5 = Certified goofball

1