Therapy Dogs Help Kids Heal at the Ranch

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How Therapy Dogs Help Kids Heal Updated

Have you met the therapy dogs who are making a difference daily at the Ranch? Meet Luca, Elvis, Cooper, and Emmy Lou!

These four aren’t just beloved companions—they’re four-legged therapists helping youth heal, build trust, and regulate emotions in Billings. Their presence provides comfort, connection, and stability for kids who need it most.

Meet Our Canine Team and Their People

Therapy dogs do more than bring smiles—they play a key role in supporting the emotional well-being of the youth in our care.

  • Dr. Taylor Clark, Occupational Therapist, with her therapy pup, Luca
  • Mackenzie Warren, Equestrian Specialist, with her therapy pup, Elvis.
  • Cooper and Emmy Lou with Lisa Frazier, retired Director of Recreational Services

For many kids, therapy dogs offer something people sometimes can’t—a calming, judgment-free presence that makes it easier to open up, build trust, and regulate emotions.

Reducing stress and anxiety

Just being near a therapy dog has been shown to lower stress and help kids feel more at ease.

Building trust and social connections

Many of the youth we serve have experienced trauma. Therapy dogs create a safe space to rebuild trust and connection.

Supporting emotional regulation

Their presence can help kids self-soothe and navigate emotions.

Providing unconditional support

Therapy dogs offer consistent, reliable companionship, giving kids a sense of security and belonging.

A Lasting Impact

We see the impact of our four-legged therapists firsthand every day out at the Ranch. Their support goes beyond the moment—helping kids feel safe, seen, and supported as they navigate their healing journey.

We want to thank Lisa, Mackenzie, Taylor, and our incredible therapy dogs—Luca, Elvis, Cooper, and Emmy Lou. The work you do matters, and the difference you make is lasting.

Need Support?

Check out our Programs tab above to learn more about the therapeutic care we deliver daily at the Ranch and across Montana. Then, contact us online to make a referral.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.