Sharing the love of animals with those who need it most
Faithful Friends volunteers bring gentle, well-trained animals to hospitals, senior living communities, schools, and care centers — offering comfort, connection, and a moment of pure joy. Serving the Houston–Clear Lake area since 1993.
A friendly visit, wherever it's needed
Our volunteer teams bring warmth and companionship to the places where a little comfort goes a long way.
Hospitals
Bedside comfort that eases anxiety and brightens long days of healing.
Senior Living
Familiar warmth and companionship for residents and their families.
Health Facilities
Gentle visits that support recovery, therapy, and emotional wellbeing.
Schools
Calming, confidence-building moments for students of every age.
love
The quiet power of a wagging tail
A gentle nuzzle or a calm presence can change someone's whole day. The science is real, but the magic is simple — animals offer connection without judgment.
A ministry born from hardship and hope
After the hardest year of her life, founder Shari Ferguson felt called to bring comfort to hurting people. Through her church she discovered a way to combine three loves — caring for children, walking alongside seniors, and her deep affection for dogs.
She first learned about animal-assisted therapy at dog shows while showing her Siberian Husky. Starting with just two volunteers and two dogs, those first visits grew into something far bigger than she imagined.
In September 1993, University Baptist Church in Houston became the home of the Faithful Friends Animal-Assisted Therapy Ministry — and our teams have been visiting ever since.
In May 2026, Faithful Friends expanded into a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization of its own, officially becoming Faithful Friends Animal-Assisted Therapy, Inc.
A dependable Collie mix and an energetic Siberian Husky who learned to settle gently into the quiet of a nursing-home room.
A rescued Chow who had known abuse and neglect — and whose story of recovery helped reach traumatized teenagers no one else could.
What began with a single care center now reaches communities across the greater Houston–Clear Lake area, month after month.
Every team has a story
A good therapy animal isn't about breed or pedigree — it's about a calm, gentle heart. Our volunteers have included dogs of every size, cats, rabbits, a ferret, and even turtles. Each one, paired with a caring handler, becomes a bridge to comfort.
What a pet team does
There's a place for you in the pack
Whether you share a pet, lend support, or open your doors — every friend helps us spread a little more joy.
Volunteer with your pet
Share your gentle companion and become a registered Faithful Friends visiting team.
Start volunteeringSupport our mission
Your gift helps fund workshops, supplies, and more visits across the community.
Make a donationInvite us to visit
Healthcare teams, schools, and care homes can request a comforting visit.
Request a visitJoining is simpler than you think
You bring the willingness; we'll guide you and your pet through the rest.
No age limits
Everyone is welcome. Handlers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and all handlers show they can control their animal at a temperament test.
Pet ownership optional
You don't need a pet to serve. You may own several, but only one animal joins you per visit.
Up-to-date vaccinations
Animals must be vaccinated against transmissible diseases, with shot records on file.
Temperament evaluation
Each animal is checked for a calm, friendly response to strangers and new settings.
Attend a workshop
New human volunteers complete one orientation workshop before visiting.
Observe first
Your first facility visit is made without a pet, so you can see how teams work.
New-volunteer orientation
Workshops are held on the third Saturday of February, April, June, August, and October, from 8:30 AM to about noon, at University Baptist Church, 16106 Middlebrook Dr, Houston, TX 77059. Bring photos of your pet — animals are evaluated separately afterward.
To register, email newvolunteer@faithfulfriendsaat.com.
Register for a workshop Open in Google Maps →Our generous sponsors
Local businesses whose support helps our teams keep showing up for the community.
Bayside Bed & Biscuit
Full-service boarding, pet spa, daycare, and training serving League City, Kemah, Seabrook, and surrounding areas.
Visit website →
Pet Supplies Plus
Neighborhood pet retailer supporting our teams with the supplies they need to keep visiting.
Visit website →
League City Proud Organization
Fostering community partnership, spirit, history, and pride in League City — host of the Holiday in the Park weekend each December.
Visit website →
Bayside Animal Hospital
Full-service veterinary clinic caring for the dogs and cats of Kemah and League City since 2005.
Visit website →Maas Nursery
Beloved local plant and garden center, a longtime friend and supporter of the ministry.
Common Questions
Common Questions
A few things people ask most often about visiting with us and becoming a pet team.
Getting Involved
Do I have to own a pet to volunteer?
Is there an age requirement?
What kinds of animals participate?
Becoming a Pet Team
How do I get started?
What does my pet need before visiting?
Stories of Comfort & Joy
The difference a friendly visit can make
Get Involved with Faithful Friends
Our volunteer pet teams visit hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and care centers across the greater Houston–Clear Lake area.