Volunteer Laura Palmer with Billie

When Billie, a six-year-old lab-terrier mix, walks into Rise Anoka, smiles appear instantly. Spencer Sieber lights up when he sees Billie, sharing, “I love that she is kind, gentle, and cute, and I like to give her treats.” McKenna Mortek greets Billie with a shy smile, and Jenny Ramsdell, curious from the start, enjoys sitting next to Billie and sometimes giving her a quick pet. For many in Rise Anoka’s Life Enrichment program, Billie’s visits are the highlight of the month.

Billie comes to Rise Anoka with her volunteer handler, Laura Palmer. Laura began bringing Billie in November 2024 while working toward the therapy dog certification. “My favorite part about coming to Rise is being able to visit with the people served,” Laura says. “Seeing Spencer light up when Billie walks in or watching someone who’s usually uninterested reach out to pet her is just great.”

Laura with her daughter, Carly

Laura was already familiar with Rise because her daughter, Carly, attends Rise Anoka. “It’s great coming to visit because I get to see the activities Carley participates in and watch her interacting with staff and others in the program,” Laura shares.

Billie is a rescue dog, and Laura knew she’d be perfect for this role. “She’s just really smart. It was so easy to train her, and I knew she’d be good at this because she listens and loves people,” Laura explains. “When we come to visit, people pet her, give her treats, and you can see the growth that happens as they get more comfortable around her.”

Rise Anoka Program Manager Korey Porter, along with other team members, has seen the impact firsthand. “People served are visibly excited and engaged when she arrives, and many show signs of relaxation once they begin interacting with her. Afterward, they often seem calmer and in better spirits,” Korey shares. One moment that stands out involves Terry Angell, who does a small ‘happy dance’ whenever Billie comes through the door. “He pets Billie very gently and focuses intently on her, clearly finding comfort in the interaction.”

Pet therapy also encourages social engagement among those who might not typically participate in other activities. “Billie’s visits create a welcoming, low-pressure environment that sparks conversation and shared experiences,” Korey explains. “It aligns perfectly with our goals of promoting emotional well-being and inclusion.”

Research shows that interacting with animals can reduce stress and improve emotional well-being, and at Rise Anoka, that’s evident in every smile Billie brings. “Overall, pet therapy has been a wonderful addition to our program,” Korey says. “Billie’s visits bring genuine joy, connection, and comfort, and the positive effects last long after she leaves.”