April 1, 2025
For Debbie, volunteering has always been a passion. She has been with Soldiers’ Angels for 15 years, starting with writing letters. Over time, her dedication to supporting Service Members and Veterans grew, leading her to a new mission, bringing comfort and companionship through pet therapy.
Her journey with pet therapy began unexpectedly when she adopted Aibo from SE Guide Dogs. Aibo showed signs of being afraid of children and could no longer continue in the program. But Debbie saw something special in him. When he came to her in February 2017, she immediately knew he would make a great therapy dog. By November of that year, they started volunteering with Canine Assisted Therapy.
Therapy dogs like Aibo are specially trained to offer comfort and reduce stress in hospitals, schools, and other care settings. Unlike service dogs, which assist individuals with specific disabilities, therapy dogs provide emotional connection and companionship, easing anxiety and loneliness.
Their Impact
Debbie and Aibo visit Veterans at the West Palm Beach VA, where Aibo’s wagging tail and gentle nature instantly brighten the atmosphere. Many of the patients they meet are facing challenges—illness, isolation, or the weight of past experiences. Aibo has a way of sensing when someone needs him, offering quiet support in ways others can not.
One patient simply wants Aibo to stand beside him, and Aibo understands, waiting patiently, providing silent reassurance. Another powerful moment happened on the psychiatric floor of the VA. A Veteran, silent for days, knelt beside Aibo and began talking directly to Aibo. That simple act of communication proved how powerful pet therapy can be.
Aibo’s impact extends beyond Veterans. During a visit with a group of children, he greeted each one but refused to leave the side of a young boy. Later, Debbie learned the boy had recently lost his father. Somehow, “Aibo just knew”.
Through visits to oncology wards, waiting rooms, and VA common areas, Debbie and Aibo remind people they are not alone. Aibo’s presence provides a sense of peace in moments of uncertainty, offering a much-needed distraction from pain and worry.
For Debbie, this work is more than volunteering. Together, she and Aibo prove that healing often comes in the simplest forms: a listening ear, a warm presence, and the quiet reassurance of a dog who just understands. Thank you, Debbie and Aibo, for your unwavering dedication to bringing comfort and connection to those who have served.
Debbie’s Reflection
Debbie reflects on her journey with Aibo and the impact they have made together:
“I had been a member of Soldiers’ Angels for several years when Aibo unexpectedly came into my life. From the moment we met, I knew he was destined to be a therapy dog. He was lovable, calm, patient, and eager to go wherever I needed him. I quickly realized that we needed to partner with a reputable organization to begin our therapy work, and that’s when we found Canine Assisted Therapy. We’ve been with them since 2018. After several visits, I began to notice something special: during our visits to nursing homes, hospitals, and other facilities, the men, especially the Veterans, always seemed to have a special connection with Aibo. It was then that I knew I needed to combine my volunteer work with both organizations. The rest, as they say, is history. Aibo continues to amaze me each time he puts on his vest and does his best work. After all, I’m just the driver, getting him to his visits!“
Debbie and Aibo’s story is a powerful reminder that we all can make a difference. You don’t have to be a therapy dog to bring comfort and support to Veterans and Service Members. Whether it’s through writing letters, making a care package, or simply offering a kind word, every act of kindness helps. If you’re inspired by Debbie and Aibo’s journey and want to make an impact, consider volunteering with Soldiers’ Angels today. Together, we can bring hope and joy to those who need it most.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
