P.A.W.S. (Pet Advocates Working in the Suncoast)

At the Child Protection Center, we are incredibly proud of our P.A.W.S program and the impact these dogs have on our clients.

Whether during a therapy session or while testifying in court, P.A.W.S pups and their handlers provide comfort to children affected by the traumas of abuse and neglect. The dogs offer their companionship to our clients throughout the healing process, through their sense of calm, comfort and unconditional support.

This program was founded by Danielle Hughes, Team Coordinator of the Child Protection Team and 2020’s Child Advocate of the Year. Danielle’s own dog, Harley Duke, inspired her to create the program to benefit children in the traumatic and stressful situations that occur after child abuse.

For program inquiries, please email Danielle Hughes at DanielleS@CPCSarasota.org, or call 941-365-1277, Ext. 212