At Spirit Cove, we provide trauma-informed, animal-assisted support designed to reduce isolation, ease emotional distress, and help prevent crises before they take hold.
What began with our beloved Newfoundland therapy dogs has grown into something more—a movement rooted in connection, presence, and the belief that no one should have to heal alone.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our work took on even deeper urgency. We’ve stood alongside communities navigating loss, uncertainty, and emotional exhaustion—offering moments of calm, comfort, and connection when they are needed most.
Today, Spirit Cove is emerging in Hendersonville, North Carolina as a sanctuary for healing—a place where individuals, families, and community heroes can step out of stress and reconnect with themselves, with others, and with hope.
We serve those who carry the heaviest burdens—veterans, first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, students, and individuals overcoming trauma, illness, or loss. Many are navigating invisible challenges like anxiety, burnout, depression, and isolation. Our work meets them in a way that feels safe, human, and stigma-free.
Our approach is simple, but powerful:
We bring healing through presence.
Our trained therapy animals create immediate moments of relief—lowering stress, opening conversations, and gently bridging people to deeper support when needed.
At the heart of Spirit Cove are our gentle giants:
Newfoundland Therapy Dogs
Massive in size, but even greater in heart, these dogs are known for their calm, intuitive nature. Often described as “like a hug you can lean into,” their steady presence helps people feel grounded, safe, and seen. Historically known as water rescue dogs, they carry a quiet strength that deeply resonates with those who spend their lives helping others.
Coming soon: Gypsy Vanner Horses
Equally powerful in their gentleness, these horses bring a sense of awe, calm, and connection. With their striking beauty and deeply intuitive nature, they offer a unique form of healing—helping individuals slow down, regulate, and reconnect in ways that words often cannot.
Together, our animals help create something rare:
A space where people can exhale.
As we continue building Spirit Cove, we are expanding beyond individual visits to create a permanent sanctuary and national model—a place where therapy teams are trained, where communities gather, and where healing is woven into nature, connection, and shared experience.
Because healing doesn’t always start with a conversation.
Sometimes, it starts with a quiet moment…
A steady presence…
And the feeling that you’re not alone.
