Ambassador Dog Team

Connecting Hearts Through Wagging Tails

The Ambassador Dog Team is a unique community outreach program by the Flagler Humane Society, featuring our dedicated volunteers and their well-mannered, socialized dogs. Together, they bring joy and comfort to seniors, children, and individuals with cognitive disabilities across Flagler County.

Who Are the Ambassador Dogs?

While not all of our dogs are certified therapy or service animals, each one is carefully assessed for friendly behavior, calm temperament, and the ability to interact safely with children, seniors, and other dogs. Some are certified therapy dogs, bringing an extra level of support and connection to those we visit.

A Legacy of Compassion: “Granny Kind”

The program was founded over 25 years ago by the late Yvonne Presley, affectionately known as “Granny Kind.” Wearing an apron adorned with 3D animal figures and using a felt storyboard, she visited schools and libraries to teach children about:

  • Humane treatment of animals
  • Responsible pet ownership
  • Compassion and empathy

Her legacy continues through every visit made by the Ambassador Dog Team today.

Paws for Reading: Where Kids Read to Dogs

Launched in 2013 in partnership with the Flagler County Public Library, Paws for Reading is a free weekly reading program where children practice their reading skills by reading aloud to our Ambassador Dogs in a fun and non-judgmental environment.

Wednesdays | 4:30 – 5:30 PM
Children’s Department, Flagler County Public Library (Palm Coast)
New Location Coming Winter 2025!

The program will also be available at the new Bunnell Library.

Who We Visit

The Ambassador Dog Team makes regular visits to a variety of community partners, including:

  • Assisted Living & Memory Care: Tuscan Gardens, HarborChase, Brookdale, Las Palmas
  • Nursing Homes: Grand Oaks
  • Preschools & Daycares: Two by Two Preschool, Little Angels Daycare
  • Special Needs Facilities: ECHO, Early Learning Coalition of Flagler County
  • Hospice Care: Advent Stuart Meyer Hospice House
  • Local Schools and Camps

Camp Pawprint & Summer Education

At FHS’s Camp Pawprint and other children’s camps, the Ambassador Dog Team provides engaging educational sessions on:

  • How to safely approach and pet a dog
  • Understanding the difference between therapy dogs and service dogs
  • Reading and storytelling time with therapy dogs

Why It Matters

The Ambassador Dog Team helps build confidence, reduce stress, and promote empathy through meaningful, one-on-one interactions with animals. Whether it’s a child learning to read or a senior in memory care, the comfort and companionship of our dogs make a lasting impact.

Want to Get Involved or Learn More?

If you’re interested in joining the program or inviting the Ambassador Dog Team to your organization, we’d love to hear from you.