Yes… this episode should have gone out before Christmas.
And yet, there’s something quietly perfect about sharing it now, at the very beginning of January.
Because this conversation isn’t really about Christmas.
It’s about connection.
About slowing down enough to notice the magic that’s already there.
And about the kind of presence dogs offer us - especially when the world feels loud, fast, or overwhelming.
In this episode, Andy Honda invites us into life in New York City through the eyes (and paws) of her therapy dog, Koa, and into the heart behind her children’s book series Koa’s Ruff Life.
It’s gentle.
It’s grounding.
And it’s exactly the kind of story many of us need as we step into a new year.
🐾 What we explore in this episode
How a big, soulful Rhodesian Ridgeback became a certified therapy dog
What therapy dog visits actually look like - in children’s hospitals and schools for kids with special needs
Why Koa’s calm presence has such a powerful effect on children
How everyday walks through New York City turned into stories that educate, comfort, and delight
The surprising thread connecting Andy’s work as a medical executive with her storytelling for children
Why paying attention is one of the greatest gifts dogs give us
Key takeaways
The truth behind therapy dogs: It’s not about tricks or obedience - it’s about temperament, attunement, and emotional safety
Why small, ordinary moments matter: A walk, a pause, a shared smile ... this is where connection lives
How dogs help us regulate: Koa doesn’t “do” much, and that’s exactly why he helps so much
Why stories are such powerful teachers: Especially for children, learning lands best when it’s wrapped in warmth and curiosity
💬 Favorite quote from the episode
“There’s something about Koa. He has this calming presence - and an uncanny ability to sense emotion.”
About Andy & Koa
Andy Honda is a NYC-based medical executive, speaker, and lifelong animal lover. Originally from Hawaii, she brings a spirit of warmth, curiosity, and aloha into everything she creates.
Her children’s book series, Koa’s Ruff Life, is inspired by real-life adventures with her therapy dog, Koa - from Central Park mornings to holiday traditions in New York City. Together, Andy and Koa volunteer weekly with children with special needs, offering comfort, companionship, and connection.
Her latest release, Koa’s Ruff Life: Christmas Time in New York City, captures the wonder of the season, but as you’ll hear in this episode, its heart goes far beyond Christmas.
🔗 Connect with Andy
🌐 Website: https://koasrufflife.com
🌐 Author site: https://andyhondamd.com
📚 Signed books & the full series available via her website
January often arrives with pressure: new goals, new habits, new energy.
This episode offers something different.
This is an invitation to begin the year gently.
To remember that presence matters more than momentum.
And to let dogs - as always - lead us back to what’s real.
As always, to find out all about Soul Touched by Dogs, go to
👉 https://soultouchedbydogs.com