“Unleashing Happiness” a monthly blog by Karen Lee Stevens

Director of Wellness Programs, Karen Lee Stevens tackles topics related to mental health and the human-animal bond, along with a healthy dose of humor (because let’s face it, sometimes you have to laugh to keep from crying!).

BLOG POST #27 – Press “Paws” and Practice

November 10, 2025
by KAREN LEE STEVENS

You know those days when your little one’s energy feels less like a kid and more like a bouncy puppy who just discovered the pure joy of chasing her own tail? Maybe they’re juggling homework, a tough friend situation, or just a few too many hours glued to a screen. Yeah, those days are loud. Finding a genuine moment of peace (for them and for you!) can feel totally overwhelming.

But what if hitting the calm button was as easy as pressing “play” on a short video featuring a seriously handsome Golden Retriever radiating pure tranquility? That’s exactly the idea behind our new series of dog-infused Wag Well mindfulness videos for kids!

These short, sweet videos are the ultimate school-day slow-down. They offer a fun, gentle invitation for young humans to “paws,” breathe, and hit the mental reset button.
Imagine a moment of pure calm as children listen to an uplifting “Brain Break” exercise. As they follow my voice, their eyes stay focused on one of our adorable co-stars—maybe Rogue, the Golden Retriever, giving a gentle grin, or Echo, the Mini Aussie, joyfully flying across the sand at the beach.

Every video features a different, incredibly chill therapy dog who acts as a visual anchor. Their steady, soothing smiles help busy little minds relax, making mindful observation feel completely natural, not like some dreaded chore.

The reality is that kids’ nervous systems are often stuck in “fight or flight” mode, and that’s not a good thing. Screens, social pressures, the general buzz of life—it all adds up. Now, mindfulness isn’t magic; it’s simply training their attention to come back to the precious present moment. It’s the equivalent of a gentle reboot for a frazzled brain.

And that’s why our therapy dogs are pure gold! They’re the living, breathing experts on being present. Ever watched a dog fully savor a treat? That’s mindful eating! Have you seen them completely absorb the smells on a walk, totally oblivious to your massive to-do list? That’s sensory awareness! And that cute little head tilt when you speak? That’s mindful listening!

Their presence gently encourages us all to slow down. Petting a soft coat, feeling a warm body lean in, or just listening to that steady, soft breathing—these are powerful, simple anchors that soothe overactive minds and bring us right back down to earth.

I’ve packed these powerful practices into fun, easy-to-digest segments with kids in mind (though, full disclosure, I use them myself when I need a quick reset! Grown-ups love them, too!). Mindfulness should feel accessible, enjoyable, and genuinely heartwarming. And with a wagging tail involved? Well, that’s the peanut butter atop the dog biscuit!

On a personal note, I’d like to extend a huge, heartfelt thank you to 12-year-old Audrey Williams, a 7th grader, who graciously volunteered her incredible talent to record the Spanish voice-over for two of our new videos! Her clear, warm voice helps us reach a whole new audience, and I am so grateful for her thoughtful contribution.

So, the next time your little one’s mind starts running too fast, skip the struggle. Get them settled into a comfy spot, press play, and let our furry friends guide your child back to a calm state. You might just find that inner peace you crave, and maybe your kid’s mind will finally let out a little contented sigh when they take a moment to “paws” and practice.

To watch our Wag Well mindfulness videos, please visit: https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1r_DDtuD2PkPcF6Jt9mQRySfrh1ttyaWd. And, Karen would love to hear about your meditation practice! Send her an email at karen@therapydogssb.org.

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