All Volunteer Organization
Loving Animals Providing Smiles (LAPS)
Loving Animals Providing Smiles (LAPS) is an all-volunteer organization of well-trained, certified therapy teams. Each team is made up of one handler with one animal. LAPS operates in Napa, Solano and Sonoma counties of Northern California. Our goal is to enrich the lives of our clients and improve their overall well-being.
Summer 2023
Loving Animals Providing Smiles (LAPS) and Mini Hooves Providing Smiles (Mini Hooves / MHPS) have remained dedicated to building our organizations while responding and adapting to covid regulations.
LAPS has continued supporting current teams with hands-on training sessions and mentoring at visits. The certified teams have been visiting a variety of locations including senior living, libraries and campuses. During the summer you might see our teams at special events with the Solano County Libraries and out-n-about on field trips aimed at developing new skills and cooperation for our dedicated members.
The LAPS volunteer administration is reaching out to facilities requesting visits to see how our therapy teams might respond to the growing need. They are also preparing the 6-week Fall Team Training Class planned for September 2023. (Details on that class and application form can be found on the ‘downloads’ page.)
Mini Hooves has been visiting facilities in their area, keeping their certified teams current on skills and continuing to train their miniature donkeys. Their volunteer administration is also responding to requests, hoping to fill as many needs as possible. The teams have been participating in fun events including the Western Gala and the annual July 4th parade. You might see MHPS handlers at the West Coast Equine Sports Therapy center and educational booths. This establishment provides much of the training and proofing activities for our therapy minis and their handlers. We appreciate their many hours of guidance and professional expertise.
We understand how an animal, especially one that is trained to engage people politely, can bring happiness to others. LAPS and Mini Hooves will continue to share our time with safety, kindness, joy and appreciation in our hearts and minds.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding,
Marilane Bergfelt
LAPS President and Co-Founder
Please keep up with our activities via Facebook.
Spring 2024 Training
Our Spring 2024 Class for Dogs will start on Saturday, February 17 (handlers only) and continue each Saturday, February 24th, through March 23rd with pets.
Download the flyer in the Downloads section below for further details.