AZ Paws with a Purpose began with one question Kimberly Smith heard over and over again…

How can my dog become a therapy dog?

That question inspired her to create a place where others could find encouragement, guidance, and helpful resources for their own therapy dog journey.

With 8 years of therapy dog experience through 3 different dogs, Kimberly has seen firsthand the comfort, healing, and connection that therapy dogs can bring. She has witnessed the way a warm, soft head resting beside a patient can ease tension and calm anxious eyes. She has seen nervous family members relax into smiles, shy children connect with a dog that offers love without judgment, and children once fearful after a traumatic experience begin to feel safe again through the comfort of a trusted paw hug.

She has also seen the joy a cuddly dog can bring to stressed college students needing a quiet moment during exams, and the laughter and light that a playful dog in colorful costumes can bring to memory care residents who may feel confused or forgotten. Time and again, she has watched dogs open hearts, ease stress, and bring simple but powerful moments of joy… healing hearts one paw at a time.