Little Paws for a Big Cause - Hazel's Story

Hazel is a pup who has devoted her life to helping others, bringing joy to everyone she meets with her gentle presence and warm heart. As a certified therapy dog, her primary focus has been supporting children on their journey through grief. Since 2017, Hazel has been a cherished part of the therapy animal program at the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas.  

Her impact extends far beyond one organization. Hazel has also brought smiles and support to young patients at the Children’s Hospital, families at the Ronald McDonald House, and children of deployed military service members through her visits with NEISD. She has brought comfort in the most tender of moments, offering a calming presence while bringing joy to children, families, and staff alike.

In 2022, Hazel was deployed through the Crisis Animal Response (CARE) program with Therapy Animals of San Antonio to Uvalde on the day of the school tragedy. She continued to visit the community in the weeks and months that followed, providing steady comfort in the face of unimaginable loss. Her extraordinary work in Uvalde was recognized nationally by USA Today and AKC Family Dog magazine, and she was named Pet Partners' Pet of the Year in 2022. 

In addition to her therapy work, Hazel has proudly served as Fiesta royalty—crowned both El Rey Fido and King Anbarkio—representing the animal welfare community with grace, charm, and of course, a fabulous wardrobe.

Now preparing for retirement, Hazel is making one final contribution to the community she loves. Her humans have been involved in rescue for many years, with a special focus on French Bulldogs, and Hazel is proud to carry on that legacy. This is her opportunity to make a difference by supporting the lifesaving work SNIPSA does every day. Becoming Face of the Race would be a meaningful way to honor Hazel’s lifetime of love, healing, and service—one pawprint at a time.

Please consider donating to Hazel’s campaign and help save the lives of animals who cannot help themselves. They’re counting on us to be their voice, their hope, and their future.  THANK YOU!!