Unleasing Hope

GREEN BAY – This month, Kibo the therapy dog celebrated his one-year anniversary at local shelter, the House of Hope, where he’s become an important member of the team, supporting staff and residents alike.

“Kibo doesn’t just care for our residents — he takes care of our staff, too. When you’re navigating crisis after crisis, having a moment to sit with Kibo can be grounding. He helps us breathe, reset, and keep going,” said Shannon Wienandt, executive director at House of Hope. “Staff report feeling more supported and less stressed when Kibo is on site. He’s become a vital part of our wellness culture, reminding all of us to slow down and connect. Just sitting with him for a few minutes or taking him for a walk can help us reset and keep going.”

Kibo also recently passed the Canine Good Citizen test, adding a new skill to his resume and becoming a certified therapy dog.

“After taking several classes, he had to pass a test involving completing a series of commands and avoiding certain distractions he was trained to ignore. No surprise to us, Kibo passed and brought home a shiny blue ribbon,” said Wienandt.

Over his one year in the workforce, Kibo has made a very positive impact on the community, making sure everyone feels safe and loved. He sits in on every therapy session House of Hope offers and has become a trusted and loyal companion of the residents.

“Kibo’s one of the hardest-working members of our team. He helps build bridges, lower walls, and reminds every person here that they are loved and safe. We’re better because he’s here,” said Wienandt.

“His calm presence lowers anxiety, creating an emotionally safe environment that encourages honest conversation. Kibo makes the space feel safe. He’s helping us reach people in ways that words alone often can’t.”

Kibo is rewarded for his hard work with time off, self-care and constant love and attention from the team.

“Our team takes great care of him and he is doted on 24/7. He even gets time off to walk along the beach or play with other puppies and practice his own self-care,” Wienandt shared. “As House of Hope continues its mission to support and empower youth and families in crisis, Kibo remains at the heart of that work—a quiet hero offering comfort, connection, and unconditional care.”

A typical day for Kibo involves a morning walk, yummy treats, naptime and then important work caring for residents.

“Kibo supervises the humans who work here at House of Hope. He starts his day off with a morning stroll around the block. He then has breakfast and ensures that our staff shift change goes smoothly.

Kibo supervises the kids getting on the bus and provides company to any youth in The Drop-In,” said Wienandt. “Then, he takes a nap break and plays with some of his toys. Mid-morning, Kibo usually provides assistance with a life skills program. Then, he attends some scheduled therapy sessions.”

After dinner, Kibo takes an evening walk, sometimes accompanied by local deer he has made friends with. Then, he’s off to one of his beds throughout the shelter, sometimes with a lullaby playing in the background to help him relax after a busy day.

Wienandt added that Kibo is “a great napper” and will often fall asleep during staff meetings and presentations.

“Everything we do is rooted in trauma-informed, relationship-based care. Kibo embodies that. He doesn’t need words to make someone feel safe. His presence alone sends a message: you are cared for, exactly as you are,” said Wienandt.

For more information about House of Hope, visit https://www.houseofhopegb.org.