ARLP PRIORITY Paws Program

A Rotta Love Plus’s groundbreaking PRIORITY (Pitbull and Rottweiler Interactive OutReach, Instruction, and Therapy for Youth) Paws program takes place at two organizations that serve youth in crisis in Hennepin and Ramsey Counties: The Bridge for Youth and Ain Dah Yung. ARLP PRIORITY Paws teams have all been registered by Therapy Dogs International or Pet Partners.

The PRIORITY Paws curriculum – developed by ARLP’s Education Director, Kellie French – engenders a discussion among the youth and ARLP volunteers about topics that relate jointly to animal and youth welfare, such as communication, body language, empathy, resiliency, and more.  

Each element of this innovative curriculum not only benefits struggling youth in the Twin Cities, but also has a positive impact on the image and overall welfare of Rottweilers and pit bulls.

PRIORITY Paws would not be possible without our talented facilitators and our dedicated dog/handler teams. If you and your therapy-registered (Pet Partners or TDI) Rottweiler or pit bull are interested in volunteering with the PRIORITY Paws program, please contact education@arottalove.org.

PRIORITY Paws Dogs

Click on each dog's photo to read their bio!

In Memory

Several of our long-standing canine volunteers are enjoying a very happy retirement on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. We will always be grateful for their service to ARLP and for all of the smiles they brought to the children they served.

Many of the photos on this page were taken by  Tara Engle Photography,  MN pet, child, and wedding photographer .