We provide award-winning Animal-Assisted Therapy services at no cost to our community partners throughout North Central Alabama and Tuscaloosa. Our service area currently includes Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Tuscaloosa counties.
Every Hand in Paw visit is led by a trained, evaluated Therapy Team and tailored to the goals of the people and places we serve.
Therapy Teams reduce stress and lift improve outcomes for patients, families, and the healthcare professionals who care for them.
Sit, Stay, Read! and other classroom visits are designed to help students build confidence, focus, and a genuine love of learning.
Become a registered Therapy Team with your dog or cat — or help as a Visit Assistant, no pet required.
Join us on Friday, October 16, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Cahaba Brewing Company for a spirited pet costume contest, a stein hoist competition, and an Oktoberfest-themed photo booth while you enjoy craft…
Learn More
Bring your well-behaved pets and family to the Hand in Paw Training Center on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon for festive photos with Santa Paws! Capture a special holiday…
Learn More
Save the Date for Mutt Strut! Grab your leash, gather your friends, and get ready for a tail-wagging good time! Mutt Strut 2027 will bring our community together to celebrate the bond…
Learn MoreFor more than 18 years, Becki Vance has shared her time, compassion, and experience with Hand in Paw — serving alongside four Therapy Animals. For more than 18 years, Becki...
Hand in Paw’s 25th annual gala celebrated a quarter-century of art, animals, and generosity — and exceeded its fundraising goal in support of Animal-Assisted Therapy! What a night, and what...
TALES BLOG / Picasso Pets 2026: Your Know-Before-You-Go Guide From what to wear and what’s for dinner to auction previews and when to arrive, here’s everything you need to know...
