Changing Lives — One Dog, One Teen at a Time.

H.A.L.T. helps at-risk teens build confidence and compassion by training shelter dogs for adoption in Knoxville, TN.

Adopt a H.A.L.T. Dog

These amazing dogs have worked hard and are ready to meet their forever families!

What’s New at H.A.L.T.

Adoption Event #2: Smoky Mountain Brewery

The fall session is upon us! The dogs have started training and learning new skills from their teen handlers. This

September 14 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Adoption Event #2: Smoky Mountain Brewery

The fall session is upon us! The dogs have started training and learning new skills from their teen handlers. This

September 14 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Meet and Greet #1: Willow Ridge Garden Center

The fall session is upon us! Dogs have been chosen, and their first photo shoot is scheduled. Meet Daphne! She’s

September 7 @ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Become a Volunteer — Change Two Lives at Once .

Volunteers are the heart of H.A.L.T. From helping at training classes to assisting with events and adoptions, every role matters.


No experience required — just patience, kindness, and a love for animals and people. Take the first step toward giving a rescue dog a new home.

Each dollar helps dogs find homes and teens build confidence.

Your contribution funds vet care, training supplies, and the H.A.L.T. classes that bring hope to our community. Whether it’s a one-time gift or a recurring donation, your support keeps this program alive.

Where Healing Happens — for Teens and Dogs .

Founded in 1987, the H.A.L.T. Program provides therapeutic intervention for at-risk adolescents through dog obedience training.

Dogs are rescued from local shelters, paired with teens, and trained together in a supportive environment.
 While the dogs learn obedience and trust, the teens gain self-esteem, empathy, and purpose.

Latest Stories & Updates

Fall is quickly approaching, and so is our upcoming HALT class! Dogs have been selected and are currently with our

We’re getting started a couple of weeks early this year. We are excited to share that our spring class will

Our Spring 2024 session is scheduled to begin the week of April 8th. Our dog selection team will be working

Get in Touch

Have a question about our programs, dogs, or how to get involved? We’d love to hear from you.
Send us a message and we’ll get back to you within 1–2 business days.
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