• News
  • //
  • National Therapy Animal Day: Honoring Healing Through Connection

National Therapy Animal Day: Honoring Healing Through Connection


National Therapy Animal Day is observed each year on April 30 to recognize therapy animals and their human companions (trainers, handlers, etc.)  who bring comfort and care into people’s lives. The day also raises awareness of the growing role animal-assisted therapy plays in supporting emotional and mental well-being.

The connection between animals and healing stretches back to ancient Greece, where animals were present in healing temples and used to provide comfort and support. Over time, this understanding evolved into a more intentional and recognized approach to care. In the late 1700s, animals were incorporated into care at the York Retreat in England, supporting individuals with mental health conditions through companionship and routine. In the 19th century, Florence Nightingale observed that small companion animals could reduce anxiety and provide comfort to patients, reinforcing the idea that healing is not only physical, but emotional as well. By the mid-20th century, this approach gained traction in clinical settings, where practitioners found that patients, especially children, were often more open and responsive in the presence of animals. These early practices helped shape what is now recognized as animal-assisted therapy, a structured and research-support

At the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling (ECPG), we recognize that healing begins with understanding, compassion, and connection. Through our Healing Animal Adoptions (HAA) program, we reflect this approach by creating opportunities for people to support recovery-focused work while engaging with the symbolic presence of therapy and service animals. Each adoption is more than a gesture. It is a meaningful act of support that carries a message of hope and serves as a reminder that even small actions can create lasting impact.

Supporters can symbolically adopt Casey the Service Dog or Skye the Therapy Horse, each representing the comfort, courage, and healing that animals bring into people’s lives. These adoptions support ECPG’s mission to provide resources and services for individuals and families affected by problem gambling and related mental health challenges. Each plush reflects not just companionship, but the steady presence, reassurance, and strength that therapy and service animals offer every day.

Our partnerships help extend this impact. Northwest Battle Buddies provides trained service dogs to individuals living with trauma, helping restore confidence and independence. Casey the Service Dog reflects that bond of loyalty, resilience, and daily support. Lifeline Connections offers equine therapy programs where horses like Skye create space for calm, reflection, and emotional connection. Skye represents a steady, intuitive presence that brings comfort and a sense of grounding to those on the path to healing.

National Therapy Animal Day is an opportunity to recognize both the history and the ongoing impact of this work. It is a reminder that healing is not only clinical. It is relational, consistent, and often grounded in connection that feels safe and enduring.

To be part of that impact, consider symbolically adopting Casey the Service Dog or Skye the Therapy Horse through ECPG’s Healing Animal Adoptions program. Each adoption supports programs that bring comfort, stability, and connection to individuals and families across our communities, helping carry that healing forward in a meaningful way.

If you have questions about gambling behaviors for yourself or someone you care about, free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day.

Call, text, or chat with the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling’s 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-547-6133, or visit evergreencpg.org to connect with support statewide.

References and resources:

All News Posts