Angel Paws
The Heart of Our Mission

Guided by compassion, led by connection.

Meet the dedicated individuals who guide Angel Paws with care, wisdom, and a shared commitment to every community we touch.

Debbie Benningfield, President of Angel Paws Pet Therapy

Debbie Benningfield

President

Companion: Sam

Debbie Benningfield is the President of Angel Paws Pet Therapy. She came to know Christ after being diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2014. Therapy dogs helped her recover, and she saw how dogs could help people through difficult times. Members of Champion Forest Baptist Church encouraged her to start a pet therapy ministry; Angel Paws began in 2017. She and her Shetland Sheepdog Sam continue that work today—alongside teaching forensic science and serving in her local church.

Susan Canon, Treasurer of Angel Paws Pet Therapy

Susan Canon

Treasurer

Companion: Lexie

Susan brings more than 20 years of professional experience as a practicing CPA and a heart for serving others to the Angel Paws board. She has been a dedicated Angel Paws volunteer for nine years, partnering with her Shetland Sheepdog, Lexie, to provide comfort and encouragement to those in need. Susan also serves in her local church and in the student program of a non-denominational Bible study.

Andrea Langford, Secretary of Angel Paws Pet Therapy

Andrea Langford

Secretary

Companion: Kylo Ren

Andrea has volunteered in pet therapy for the past 10 years, sharing comfort, encouragement, and joy with those facing physical or emotional challenges. She works in healthcare, where caring for patients is both her profession and passion. Her faith in Jesus inspires her to serve others, and she and Kylo Ren enjoy bringing smiles and hope to the people they visit.

Bart Canon

At-Large Board Member

Bart brings more than 45 years of professional experience in risk management, serving as a leader for major corporations and as an insurance broker. He is also a CPA. Bart, like his wife Susan, has a heart for serving others as an advisor and active participant in Angel Paws Pet Therapy. He serves in several ministries at his local church and participates in a non-denominational Bible study. Bart believes pet therapy animals can help reach people for Christ while providing comfort and joy.

Help the mission continue

Your gift helps Angel Paws prepare for visits and care for the dogs who bring comfort across our community.

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Our Shared Vision

Every paw print leaves a mark on the soul.

Our board meets monthly not just to review numbers, but to share stories from the field. It's this proximity to our mission—the actual wagging tails and the smiles they provoke—that keeps our leadership grounded and focused.