Rescue dog gets a special job helping children Meet Hanalei, a certified therapy dog and rescue, joining a Treasure Coast nonprofit in its work helping child victims of sexual exploitation and trafficking.



A Florida nonprofit is adding a new four-legged resource to its work helping child victims of sexual exploitation and trafficking.

Video above: Dog missing for 30 days rescued from storm drain


Catch the Wave of Hope is an anti-exploitation and anti-trafficking organization focused on awareness, education and survivor support. The organization works with children, parents, law enforcement, and other community professionals while also connecting survivors with therapy and other resources.

Hearst Owned Catch the Wave of Hope

Now, Hanalei, a certified therapy dog, is joining that effort. Hanalei was rescued from Big Dog Ranch Rescue at 3 months old. She is a Labrador-Boxer mix and will turn two in November.

Sarah Marie Henry, the executive director, is Hanalei's owner and handler.

 We have just kind of heard this overwhelming need for more therapeutic options, especially for children,  Henry said.

Hanalei will work with children at the Treasure Coast Child Advocacy Center, where some children go through the forensic interview process. She will also be available during therapy sessions and potentially during court proceedings.

Hearst Owned

 She is there to be a support to really help them feel safe and comforted,  Henry said.

Henry said Hanalei was a natural fit for the role because she has always responded well to children. She was trained and assessed before becoming certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

Henry said children have already responded positively to Hanalei, including children with different learning disabilities.

 It's almost instilled in them that she knows and is excited to see them and really gets down on their level and is just available,  she said.

Hanalei is also a rescue, something Henry said gives her story another meaningful connection to the children she serves.

 I think that she just has a different understanding because of w

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