Written by Connie Esparza, Communications Manager for the Illinois Red Cross
For over a century, the Red Cross has recognized the unique bond between people and dogs, especially in helping soldiers and veterans find comfort and companionship during challenging times. Logan, a 7th-grade art teacher with over 15 years in the classroom, is proud to carry this tradition through the Illinois Red Cross with his two remarkable therapy dogs, Nova and Lucy.
Logan’s journey into therapy work began about two years ago, with a chance encounter that led to a calling. As a teacher, he saw firsthand the positive impact dogs could have on students needing a quick “brain break” and thought, why not extend this to first responders? He was drawn to help those facing incredible daily pressures and knew his dogs could help them unwind and feel appreciated. When he read about the Red Cross’s Animal Visitation Program, he reached out, eager to get involved and offer support to these brave men and women eventually connecting with the Illinois Region Service to Armed Forces.
Nova, a six-year-old Miniature American Shepherd, is the team’s laid-back, affectionate couch potato. “She’s happiest when she’s snuggled up, letting people pet her,” Logan says. Her three-year-old daughter, Lucy, is Nova’s energetic opposite. She’s a natural-born ‘Energizer Bunny’ who’s always got a ball in her mouth—until her Red Cross vest goes on. Then, Lucy becomes fully focused on her role as a therapy dog, ready to support and comfort anyone she encounters. Together, Nova and Lucy make the perfect pair, each bringing a unique energy to Logan’s work.
Logan’s volunteer work with the Red Cross and Alliance of Therapy Dogs has taken him into various settings, from hospitals and disaster sites to special events for military families. One recent Yellow Ribbon Event left a lasting impression on him. “When the dogs walked in, I could feel the tension immediately but just as quickly it melted away,” he recalls. “National Guardsmen preparing for deployment, their families nervous and uncertain, but the moment Nova and Lucy entered the room, there was this collective exhale, and people just started to relax as they approached and interacted with Nova and Lucy. It reminded me that this work isn’t just about reaching individuals—it’s about helping whole families who are navigating these life-changing moments.”
Training Nova and Lucy to become therapy dogs was no easy feat. “It’s a minimum of a year to get them trained, socialized, and ready to handle high-stress environments without adding to anyone’s anxiety. And even after that, there’s ongoing training to keep them sharp and responsive,” Logan shares. But once they were ready, the impact was immediate. Logan has seen his dogs transform tense, emotionally charged situations into opportunities for connection and healing. “Dogs don’t judge, they live in the moment. They make people feel safe, valued, and loved, no matter what else is happening.”
“Our Yellow Ribbon Events bring together a variety of resources for our deploying soldiers and their families. We are thankful for the Red Cross for so many reasons, but in this instance for bringing their Animal Visitation Program dogs to our events. While there might be nerves and apprehension in the room, it’s endearing to see soldiers and their families on the floor interacting with the dogs and even more gratifying to see the smiles,” shared Staff Sergeant Jonathan Galloway.
Across the Illinois Region, the Red Cross has a team of eighteen dedicated animal therapy volunteers who provide comfort and care wherever needed—and now, serving the military community through the Red Cross Service to Armed Forces. “We’re all from different backgrounds,” Logan says. “Some are retired, some work from home, and each of us brings something unique to the team. I’m constantly inspired by the commitment and heart of our Animal Visitation Group — they’re always finding new ways to help their communities.”
The Red Cross has deployed therapy dogs to comfort veterans and service members since World War II, and today, their efforts span the globe. These dogs offer warmth to disaster survivors who may have lost everything, reassurance to veterans in hospitals, and a sense of calm to military families facing the uncertainties of deployment. No matter where they go, Nova and Lucy’s gentle presence breaks down walls and opens the door to healing interactions.
“I’m proud of my volunteer work with the Red Cross. Our military is important, and they deserve all the support they can get for being willing to make the ultimate sacrifice,” shared Logan.
If you’d like to learn more about the Red Cross Animal Visitation Program or other volunteer opportunities, visit redcross.org/volunteer.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Your time and talent can make a real difference in people’s lives. Discover the role that's right for you and join us today!
