Episode 79. How Therapy Dog Lil’ Leo Inspired a Global Humane Education Movement with Parnita Senjit

Panita Senjit grew up in India where she learned to be terrified of dogs. So you might be wondering how she’s become the award-winning author of a children’s book series based on her therapy dog, Lil’ Leo. And the answer is: her son really wanted a dog.

When living in Austin, Texas, Panita was introduced to Therapy Dog work and realized their family dog, Leo had the perfect temperament for being a therapy dog. Panita was quickly drawn to the impact of therapy dog work with children.

After moving back to the UK, Parnita and Leo passed another Therapy Dog assessment – so he’s a therapy dog in two countries!

During COVID-19, Parnita was inspired to write children’s books based on Leo’s adventures. With 3 books currently published, Parnita shares with us why she’s so focused on having the books translated into many different languages – to spread a message of kindness globally.

Parnita & I discuss:

Parnita’s early life and experiences (or lack thereof) with dogs in India;
Parnita’s world travels;

How Leo joined Parnita’s family;
What factors families should consider when choosing a dog;
How Parnita was introduced to Therapy Dog work with Leo;
What Parnita & Leo learned in Therapy Dog training;
Why working with children is so important to Panita;
Lessons from Leo;
What should Pet Parents should know – about their dogs and themselves – before considering Therapy Dog work?;
How Parnita & Leo adapted their Therapy Dog work during COVID-19;
Becoming a Therapy Dog in the UK;
What inspired Parnita to write the Lil Leo books and her goals for the book series;
Why Parnita isn’t focused on writing more books right now and what she’s focusing on instead