Therapy dog volunteer team got their start in 4-H

When a therapy dog enters a space, a sense of peace follows. 

That’s what Lauren Riedel sees again and again, whether entering a library, airport or hospital with her mini labradoodle, Holly. 

In one memorable visit to a hospice house, they stopped by the bedside of an elderly woman who was nearing the end of her life. 

Though the woman was weak, she reached out to pet Holly, her fingers brushing against Holly’s soft fur. A small, peaceful smile crossed her face. Later, her family told Riedel that it was the last time she had smiled before passing.

“That’s a clear example of what having a therapy dog can do,” Riedel recalls. “It was a very special moment we got to share with both the patient and the family.”

It was just one example of the many meaningful connections they facilitate as a therapy dog team. 

Their work earned Riedel recognition as a 2025 Northern Lights Nominee, an award University of Minnesota Extension gives to recognize volunteer impact. What began in 4-H has transformed into a public service that reaches communities throughout Minnesota. 

Building a dream team 

Riedel was in third grade when her family welcomed Holly. To ensure Holly would grow from a playful puppy into a well-behaved dog, they joined the Hennepin Heelers 4-H Club.

“The leaders really taught us how to communicate effectively,” she says. “Since dogs don’t understand your words, learning how to use body language and positive reinforcement was crucial.”

What began as an effort to teach basic obedience quickly became a passion that shaped the next eight years of her life. 

Over time, they became a seamless team, highly competitive at the regional and state level. 

“I accomplished what I set out to, competitively, so I thought, ‘What else can we do?’” says Riedel. “That’s how we found the therapy dog work.” 

A new calling: from show dog to therapy dog 

On recommendation from a fellow 4-H’er, Riedel and Holly trained together through North Star Therapy Animals to become a certified therapy dog team. She’s experienced many moments of joy, calm and connection with Holly and members of the public. 

“The value of bringing a therapy dog into different types of environments is to provide a calm, non-judgmental presence in the space,” says Riedel. “A dog being present somehow counters a stressful situation with good energy.” 

Holly is especially in demand at PAWS to Read at the Shoreview Library, where young learners practice reading skills in a low-stress environment. Reading aloud can be daunting, but Holly’s presence makes the process fun and focused. 

“We’re a team: Holly’s a good listener, and I help students sound out words when needed. I step back and make it about the connection between the child and Holly,” says Riedel. 

She remembers one child who initially struggled. Week after week, they returned, reading aloud to Holly. As time went on, their voice grew stronger, their words clearer. Eventually, they no longer needed the program at all. “They were loud and confident!”

4-H roots: building a foundation for service

Looking back, Riedel credits her time in the Hennepin Heelers 4-H Club for making it possible to pursue therapy dog work. 

“You’ll get a huge sense of community – and a well-trained dog – out of it,” she says. “The people and leaders are passionate about making sure you are working with your dog at the best level you can.”

She hopes to expand her therapy dog work in the future, with dreams of visiting children’s hospitals and college campuses.

“I’ve always wanted to help other people in some way,” she says. “When everyone gives back, we have a stronger community. If I can do this little bit just for an hour every week to make the world a better place, why not?”

Wherever they’ll go, Riedel and Holly are proving that a dog’s gentle presence can make all the difference.