What is your and your dog’s name?
My name is Aubrey Hanger, and my beautiful 7-year-old golden retriever’s name is Pearl! She got her name from her silky, white coat.
How old were you when you became a Junior Handler? How old are you now?
I started training with Pearl when I was 16 and officially became a Junior Handler 2 weeks after my 17th birthday! I am currently still 17.
How did you find out about the Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) Junior Handler program and therapy dog work?
Finding the right organization for therapy dog work felt like searching for a needle in a haystack. I spent countless hours online, sifting through websites trying to find a program that allowed people my age to be handlers. Pearl and I were at an advanced obedience training when another handler mentioned certifying her dog through ATD and raved about their Junior Handler program. It sounded exactly like what I was looking for and was going to allow me to make a difference with my dog!
What attracts you to therapy dog work?
Therapy dog work attracts me because it combines my love for dogs with my desire to help people. The idea of bringing comfort and joy to those in need, whether they’re in hospitals, libraries, or nursing homes, is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that Pearl and I can make a positive impact on someone’s day simply by offering companionship and a friendly presence is a powerful motivator. It also offers a unique opportunity to deepen my bond with Pearl.
Did you feel you and your dog were ready or did you feel you had to take a class or lessons in order to be ready to test with ATD?
Pearl has always had the perfect temperament and demeanor for therapy dog work. However, I knew we needed to refine her obedience skills, like leash walking, before testing with ATD. This is why we sought out basic and advanced obedience classes. I really wanted Pearl to earn her Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification first, just to ensure we were both fully prepared and confident in our abilities as a team.
Where do you and your dog regularly visit?
Pearl and I have become regulars at Oak Grove, our local nursing home, bringing smiles and companionship to the residents there. We have visited our local hospitals to provide comfort to not only patients but also the staff! Most recently, we started a “Read to a Dog” program at our local library, which has been a huge hit!
What are your favorite places to visit?
My favorite place to visit is definitely our local nursing home. While all of our visits are rewarding, there’s something truly special about the relationships I’ve built with the residents at Oak Grove. Hearing their stories, sharing a laugh, or simply watching them love Pearl has created so many amazing connections. I’ve been able to learn residents’ personalities, call them by name, and build connections with each of them. It’s been such a privilege to be a small part of their lives and to bring a little bit of joy and companionship to their day!
What are your dog’s favorite places to visit?
While Pearl enjoys all our visits, I think her favorite place is definitely at the local library with the kids. She loves their playful energy and enthusiasm. Whether she’s patiently listening to them read or accepting their pets and hugs, Pearl thrives off their excitement and energy!
Do you plan on continuing therapy dog work once you are no longer a Junior Handler?
Absolutely, I plan to continue therapy work with Pearl long after I’m no longer a Junior Handler. This isn’t just a temporary activity for me; it’s something I’m truly passionate about. Seeing the positive impact Pearl and I can have on people’s lives is incredibly rewarding, and I could never imagine giving that up. I’m committed to continuing our visits and exploring new opportunities to share Pearl’s love and companionship with those who need it most.
If you could give one piece of advice to other potential Junior Handlers, what would it be?
To all prospective junior handlers, my advice is to nurture and cherish the bond you share with your dog above all else. The most amazing thing that will come from therapy work is the connection you will create between you and your canine partner! It’s the unspoken understanding, trust, and the unconditional love that will allow you to truly connect with the people you’re helping. Let your bond guide you, and it will lead you to make a profound impact on every person you visit!
