Massachusetts

Western Massachusetts

Love on a Leash®

Founded on February 14, 2018, by Laura Bauver and Pat Ferrell, the Western Massachusetts Chapter serves the communities of Western Massachusetts and Northwestern Connecticut. Now led by Laura Bauver and Assunta Criscio, the chapter’s eleven dedicated volunteers share the love and comfort of their therapy pets with people throughout the region, bringing smiles, companionship, and connection wherever they visit.

Meet Our Leaders

Laura Bauver has been a dedicated Love on a Leash® volunteer since 2017 and co-founded the Western Massachusetts Chapter the following year. She shares the joy of pet therapy with her two Labrador Retrievers, Andi and Lexi, who bring warmth and smiles wherever they go. As chapter leader, Laura is passionate about building connections within the community and supporting her fellow volunteers in spreading comfort and companionship through the power of pet therapy.

Laura Bauver

Chapter Leader

Assunta Criscio has been a dedicated Love on a Leash® volunteer since 2018 and serves as co-leader of the Western Massachusetts Chapter. She shares the joy of pet therapy with her English Cocker Spaniel, Gia, bringing comfort, smiles, and companionship to those they visit. Assunta’s warmth and commitment help strengthen the chapter’s mission of spreading kindness and connection throughout the community.