Therapy Dog Day

During this event you'll meet two dog besties who are ready to provide you with attention, hugs, and good feels. Rufus and Messi have been best friends since they were 6 months old. Now that they are 3, they have been training for certifications that will allow them to bring their therapeutic skills to the public. Spend some time with our furry friends while enjoying artwork on display from Union Hall's latest exhibition, .

• No screaming or high pitch voices as it may scare the dogs
• No pulling on the dogs tail
• Pets are not allowed in the space during this event, only service dogs
• No running toward the dogs
• Facial kisses are not allowed

• Treats for humans and dogs
• Demonstrations for interactions and commands
• Free wine, water, and seltzer
• Smiles and seratonin

Rufus is a 3 year old Berndoodle (Bernese Mountain Dog and Standard Poodle mix). He is certified by Faithfully K9 Service Dogs and will soon be certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Rufus and his handler, Lisa, plan to pursue volunteer opportunities as a therapy dog team in nursing homes and hospice, as well as providing puppy love to first responders (EMTS, police officers, fire fighters, etc) and to stressed out travelers at DIA. Rufus is a very social pup. He gives great “hugs” by leaning against people’s legs. And he is always up for puppy play with his dog friends (old and new). Rufus is a mellow guy who loves playing in the snow, hiking, chewing on bones, and taking naps.

Messi is a 3 year old Labradoodle. He understands both English and Spanish commands. He is certified by Faithfully K9 Service Dogs and Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Messi and his handler, Josephine (Jo), are currently pursuing volunteering opportunities at DIA (part of the Canine Airport Therapy Squad) and Denver Health (part of Pet Therapy program for patients and hospice). Messi is an active dog and very friendly with other dogs. When he is not working Messi can almost always be found with a ball, just like the famous soccer player he was named after, Lionel Messi. He also enjoys swimming and he especially loves his frozen yogurt dog treat after dinner!

Founded in 2019, Union Hall is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts exhibition space, with the mission of advancing opportunities for diverse, emerging artists and showcasing exhibitions while providing the community with accessible creative experiences. Union Hall was also created to be a multi-purpose, flexible space that welcomes interdisciplinary events of all kinds, including film screenings, live concerts, dance performances and more.

Connect with us: UnionHallDenver.org | @UnionHallDenver on Facebook and Instagram

We value your time with us. If you have specific needs or requirements that would make your experience more comfortable at Union Hall please reach out to us at [email protected] with accommodation requests.

Union Hall is located inside the first floor of The Coloradan in downtown Denver at 1750 Wewatta Street, Suite 144. There are two entrances to the building equipped with power assist doors and all public areas are wheelchair accessible. Street parking is available along Wewatta Street. Paid public parking is located in the building's garage with the entrance on the corner of Wewatta & 18th Street. There are wheelchair accessible spaces in this parking garage, as well as electric vehicle charging stations. Union Hall is located directly next to the Union Station train tracks, providing access to a variety of public transportation options including the bus, light rail, train, and ride shares.

The space will be moderately lit and may have audio playing at a low to moderate volume. There will be ample seating available, and all areas of Union Hall as well as The Coloradan building remain ADA accessible. Union Hall's doors will remain open at all times, giving access to move in and out of the space freely. You will be surrounded by artwork on display from the exhibition Against Nature. No artwork or installations will limit physical movement. A preview of the exhibition is available on Union Hall's website at UnionHallDenver.org/rough-gems-against-nature.

If you have trouble locating us on the day of the event call us at (720) 927-4033.

Host or Publisher Union Hall Denver