Facility Dog Valoo Brings Healing and Hope to the Wichita Children’s Home
When children arrive at the Wichita Children’s Home (WCH), they’re often carrying invisible wounds—trauma, abuse, neglect, or the horrors of human trafficking. But thanks to Facility Dog Valoo, a yellow Labrador trained by Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC), comfort and healing begin with a wag of a tail.
From Companion to Caregiver: Valoo’s Journey to Wichita
When Kim, the Development Officer at WCH, first met Valoo, she had no prior experience working with a service dog.
“I have a Shih Tzu,” she laughed. “I had no idea how to handle a working service dog!”
Through dedicated training at the GDA | TLC campus, Kim and Valoo built a strong working bond. Now, Valoo is a daily source of stability and emotional support for vulnerable children and hardworking staff alike.
A Longstanding Legacy of Care
Founded in 1888, the Wichita Children’s Home is the oldest child welfare agency in Kansas. It began as a refuge for children after a local father lost his wife during childbirth. Today, WCH serves over 2,000 children and youth annually, ranging from newborns to 18+.
In addition to providing shelter, food, and medical care, WCH offers counseling, case management, life skills training, and a safe, supportive environment for children in crisis.
Valoo: A Lifeline for Children in Crisis
Children who come to WCH often struggle with trust and emotional regulation, especially those recovering from trauma. That’s where Valoo makes his greatest impact.
“One little girl had visible signs of abuse but was able to connect with Valoo,” Kim recalled. “She sat quietly in the playroom, gently stroking his ears. It was clear she had experienced touch in a very different, painful way before—but this was safe and comforting.”
Valoo’s calm demeanor and unconditional love help children feel safe enough to express themselves and begin to heal.
Deep Pressure Therapy: A Unique Skill for Trauma Recovery
Valoo is trained to offer deep pressure therapy, a powerful technique for trauma-impacted children. When Valoo lies on a child’s lap, the soothing weight can ease anxiety and promote emotional regulation.
“He helps kids feel relaxed in a way that words alone can’t,” said Kim.
This skill was especially meaningful for a survivor of human trafficking who was anxious about talking to an adult. As she spoke, she gently rubbed her feet against Valoo’s back, grounding herself through his presence.
A Joyful Presence for Everyone at WCH
While Valoo is skilled in emotional support, he also brings laughter and joy to the Wichita Children’s Home.
“He’ll give the kids fist bumps with his nose,” said Kim. “He loves to do zoomies in the courtyard and chase a ball. He’s just so goofy and tender and playful.”
Valoo’s charm extends beyond the children—he’s a comfort to the staff as well. Many of the adults at WCH face secondary trauma from working with children in crisis, and Valoo instinctively knows when to step in.
“He’s brought a lot of joy to me too,” Kim shared. “He always seems to know when one of us is having a tough day.”
A Perfect Match Made Possible by GDA | TLC
Thanks to the expert training from Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines, Valoo is thriving in his role as a facility dog.
“They truly know what they’re doing,” Kim said with appreciation. “Valoo has a big drive and big personality. He is just the right dog for the job.”
Facility dogs like Valoo don’t just offer support—they transform lives.
Learn More About Facility Dogs Like Valoo
At GDA | TLC, we provide expertly trained service and facility dogs at no cost to people and organizations in need. Whether it’s a child recovering from trauma, a veteran living with PTSD, or a person who is blind or visually impaired, our dogs are changing lives every day.
