Healing Hearts… One Paw at a Time
Helping dog lovers explore therapy dog training, certification, and meaningful ways to serve their community.
Start Your Therapy Dog Journey
AZ Paws with a Purpose was created to encourage and guide people who want to make a difference through the love of dogs.
If you have ever wondered how your dog could become a therapy dog, where to begin with training, or how to find the right certification resources, you are in the right place. This website is here to help you take those first steps with encouragement, education, and heart.
Why Therapy Dogs Matter
Therapy dogs have a special way of bringing comfort, connection, and hope to people who need it most. Their presence can ease stress, brighten difficult days, and create moments of calm, joy, and companionship. From hospitals and memory care communities to schools and special events, therapy dogs can make a lasting impact simply by showing up with love, gentleness, and compassion.
Support the Mission
Every gift, big or small, helps make a difference. Your support helps us continue encouraging dog lovers, sharing helpful information, and promoting the positive impact therapy dogs can have in the lives of others.
Training Resources
Find helpful information and links for therapy dog training, obedience, and skill-building.
Certification Guidance
Learn more about therapy dog certification options and where to begin.
Community Impact
Explore ideas for where therapy dog teams can bring comfort and encouragement to others.
Experience You Can Trust
AZ Paws with a Purpose is built on real-life experience and a genuine love for helping both people and dogs.
Founder Kimberly Smith has spent years involved in therapy dog work with three different dogs and has completed obedience, therapy dog, and trick training. Along the way, she and her dogs have served hospitals, memory care communities, children, and mental health awareness events while earning recognition for the comfort and joy they bring.
Could Your Dog Make a Difference Too?
If you have been asking yourself how your dog can become a therapy dog, this is a wonderful place to begin. Explore the resources, get inspired, and take the first step toward building a therapy dog journey with purpose.
Paws and Connect
Get updates, helpful therapy dog resources, inspiring stories, and ways to make a difference with your dog… all delivered right to your inbox.