Lend A Paw Who's Who

There are three levels of Handlers in our Lend A Paw program as well as Basic, Intermediate and Advanced levels for dogs. The number of hours/visits determines the level of our teams. Two of our Lend A Paw teams have recently reached a milestone in our program and we would like to recognize these wonderful volunteers and their faithful companions:

Arlene Alpert & Kooper


Arlene and Kooper started with LAP program in January, 2010.  Arlene got Kooper from the Guide Dogs of America Organization.  Kooper felt that being a guide dog wasn’t for him, but Arlene knew he was still meant for something special.  Arlene has worked at Providence Tarzana Hospital for years and has been looking for a way to have Kooper join her in caring for other people.  Kooper is a four year old black Labrador Retriever who loves his work and can’t get enough attention.  Arlene and Kooper have recently achieved the status of Level II Volunteers and they are enthusiastic about their upcoming year in the program. 

Lisa Erving & Ash


Lisa Erving and her long coat Akita, Ash, have been certified with Lend A Paw since September 18, 2010.  Lisa and Ash quickly completed their six supervised visits and went on to take the role of Lead Volunteer at New Horizons.  Lisa’s vivacious personality and Ash’s unique, teddy bear look make them a favorite at New Horizons, as well as the other locations they visit.  Lisa goes above and beyond by making each visit a special event – just last month Ash turned 2 years old and she celebrated with the individuals at New Horizons by having a birthday party!  She always knows the names of the people she visits and loves to take pictures to hand out.  This last week was Lisa & Ash’s 50th visit!  She celebrated by presenting each student with a specially created LAP caricature coloring sheet of Ash and his friends, and a bag of candy.   Lisa and Ash have touched so many lives through their work and we are so blessed to have them in the LAP program. 

Thank you Arlene and Kooper and Lisa and Ash for the wonderful work you are doing! Keep lending your paws and spreading the love!