top of page
A group photo of some of the Loving Paws therapy dog team at the St. Paddy's Day parade in Lawrence, KS. Everyone is posed around the trailer for their float. Founder Raven is in the middle, surrounded by about 10 volunteers and their dogs and family plus someone in a Snoopy costume.

FOUNDED ON COMPASSION. POWERED BY CONNECTION.

Loving Paws Animal Therapy Association is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2013 by Lawrence therapist Raven Rajani, LMSW. Inspired by her belief in the healing power of animals and her bond with her rescued Staffordshire Terrier, Shakti, Rajani created Loving Paws to share the transformative connection between humans and animals. What began as a simple vision has grown into a community-driven program offering comfort, support, and connection to those facing life’s challenges.

​

Our specially trained therapy dogs offer more than just a wagging tail—they bring warmth, comfort, and a nonjudgmental presence that says: you matter. Every visit is an invitation to experience peace, connection, and a reminder that no one is alone.

Upclose shot of a gray Poodle, happy to be receiving some butt scratches from some college students in the background.

WHO WE HELP

We support individuals in a wide range of settings in Lawrence, Kansas, and surrounding communities, including:

  • Patients undergoing cancer treatment

  • Individuals with mental health diagnoses

  • Residents of senior living facilities

  • Survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault

  • Incarcerated individuals in correctional facilities

  • People in recovery from substance use

  • Justice-involved youth

  • Children and adults with special needs

  • Young readers building literacy skills

  • Students in K–12 schools and local universities

HOW WE HELP

Each visit from a Loving Paws team is an opportunity for healing, connection, and joy. Our therapy dogs and their handlers:

​​​

  • Inspire cooperation and social connection across all ages

  • Support healthy emotional expression and resilience

  • Help reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation

  • Promote physical health by lowering blood pressure and boosting mood-enhancing hormones

  • Offer unconditional love, attentive companionship, and a calm, comforting presence

  • Bring happiness, hope, and heartfelt smiles wherever they go

A group of young women seated on yoga mats, amonst them is a shaggy Australian Shepherd dog in his red Loving Paws bandana. He's looking over his shoulder at a young woman petting him, his tongue happily hanging out.

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE PUPS

MEET OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Headhsot of Loving Paws Founder, Raven. She's in a black long sleeve and has curly brown hair. Her arm is around Loving Paws founding dog, Shakti, a gray short haired dog with erect pointy ears.

RAVEN RAJANI

MLA, MSW, LSCSW, AHH

Founder & Executive Director

Therapy Team Volunteer

Board of Directors Member

Owner, Rajani Consulting, LLC and Integrative Therapy Services

SW1_7948_edited.jpg

PALVIH

Volunteer Coordinator

Therapy Team Volunteer

​

Headshot of Board of Directors Member, Greg Lyon, he's standing against a white background wearing glasses and a sage green polo shirt.

GREG LYON

Board of Directors Member

Professional Dog Trainer and Evaluator 

Owner, Mutts and Manners Dog Training

Board of Directors member, John Funk, is posed against a dark background with his therapy dog.

JOHN FUNK

Board of Directors Member

Therapy Team Volunteer

Owner of EarthWise Pet

Board of Directors Member, Lea, is seated against a black and red booth, with her hands on the shoulders of her dog, a blonde short haired Lab mix.

LEA VANDERVELDE

Board of Directors Member

Therapy Team Volunteer

American Kennel Club seal indicating the Loving Paws Animal Therapy program is backed by the American Kennel Club

The Loving Paws therapy dog certification program is recognized by the American Kennel Club

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
bottom of page