ABOUT
Nora Hayes began her journey with Golden Retrievers in 1982. With strong local training support, her first dog, Daphne, became a competitive obedience dog, earning a CD title and later working as a certified therapy dog.
Her next Golden, Finn, became her first multi-titled dog, earning titles in tracking, obedience, agility and field work. His most meaningful contribution was as his work as a therapy dog following the 9/11 attacks. Finn and Nora worked with grieving families at the NYC Family Assistance Center and later on ferries to Ground Zero, offering comfort and support as only Goldens can. For this work, Finn received the GRCA Gold Standard Award and recognition from the NYC community police.
Nora also developed a therapy program at Rockland Children’s Psychiatric Center (RCPC) with Finn and her Rottweiler mix, Bess. Their impact within the program was so significant that therapy dogs were incorporated into treatment plans. Bess, once a stray, formed deep bonds with traumatized children, giving them hope and trust when adults could not.
Nora is a long time member of SBGRC (Southern Berkshire Golden Retriever Club), HVGRC (Hudson Valley Golden Retriever Club) and GRCA (Golden Retriever Club of America) • Newsletter editor for HVGRC and a recipient of their outstanding member trophy • Chair of Public Education Committee for GRCA • Certified CGC (Canine Good Citizen) evaluator • Certified Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dog evaluator • Ethical Breeder of Golden Retrievers (2010–2023, now retired) She holds MSW in clinical social work and founded a full-service dog daycare, boarding and training facility after relocating to the Berkshires in 2005. Across generations, Nora has continued training, titling, and working with dogs, all of whom have served as certified therapy dogs.
