How it all began...
Helen Fasano has an intense love for dogs and a deep desire to serve her community.
She melded her two passions to co-found what is now know as The Bark Angels Therapy Dogs.
Helen's Story
"It began in the late 90's in Chicago. I was fascinated in the strength animals had in helping to heal humans. I began as a volunteer with other people's dogs, but in 2000 my miracle German Shephard Chief arrived to change my life forever and, in turn, started me on a mission. In 2002 I moved my daycare/boarding business to Southwest Michigan and we traveled to Chicago one to two times weekly to do our therapy work.
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In 2007 I was introduced to Marcia Fettig through my daycare and boarding business, The Petz Carlton. I fell in love with her dogs Izzy and Charlie, and Marcia and I became instant friends. That's when our mission to start a dog therapy program in our community began. Our friend Connie Hanson jumped on board with Cabo and this is how the 'FAB FIVE' was born: Cheif, Tehya, Izzy, Charlie, Cabo. To establish a community partnership with Lakeland Health, we attended a Lakeland Foundation meeting with the dogs in their vests and on their best behavior. Foundation CEO Bill Johnson welcomed the concept of our therapy dog program with open arms. We were on our way! We have trained and certified many dogs and volunteers over the years and have increased our community partnerships over the years. When I took my Bark Angles Cap off we had 35 volunteers and 10 venues. We built a beautiful, loving, healing organization that touched countless lives over the years. And, I am thankful to all who were with us on our journey!"
