BORN FROM LOVE,
BUILT ON HOPE
Golden Heart Haven was born from the deepest kind of loss.
When the Deason family lost their daughter Carissa, grief consumed them. But one Golden Retriever refused to let them stay lost in that darkness. Day after day, she offered comfort when words couldn't reach, reminding them through her unwavering presence that love still existed and healing was possible.
She didn't fix their grief. But she helped them survive it.
In that survival came a realization: if one dog could guide a shattered family back to hope, imagine what countless dogs could do for countless others.
This mission isn't born from theory—it's built from lived experience and an unwavering belief that no one should face their pain alone.
OUR MISSION
At Golden Heart Haven, we bring therapy dogs and puppies directly to communities in need. Whether it's a child struggling with anxiety, a veteran healing from trauma, a senior facing loneliness, or a workplace team needing support—we show up with unconditional love on four paws.
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Our work includes:
Therapy visits to schools, hospitals, senior centers, and workplaces
Support for mental health professionals integrating animal-assisted therapy
Purpose-bred puppy programs raising the next generation of therapy dogs
"Starting our morning surrounded by wagging tails and kind hearts reminded us of the importance of caring for our own well-being. We are deeply thankful to Connie and her team for providing this experience and helping our teachers begin their day with joy, gratitude, and renewed energy."
— Jodi D.
Associate Principal
One colleague even said it was the greatest day of her life! Several ... said that we need to do this at least once a month and keep asking me when the puppies are coming back for their next visit. It definitely cheered everyone up and lightened the mental stress load. Those puppies were magical! Thank you so much for the visit!
— Tara S.
Chief Project Engineer, Helicopters
