Barbara Ann Henry has distinguished herself in the field of animal behavior as the founder and executive director of Domino Service Dogs since 2012. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise by overseeing all business aspects of the organization along with comprehensive service dog training. Under Ms. Henry’s supervision, Domino Service Dogs has achieved remarkable stability and growth, successfully placing and training more than 200 service dogs. This accomplishment stands as a testament to her dedication and vision in expanding access to service animals for individuals who previously faced barriers due to age or health status.
Well known for her proficiency in animal training and disability services, Ms. Henry’s professional journey spans 19 years. Her commitment to advancing standards in her field is further reflected in her active memberships with the Association for Professional Dog Training since 2013 and the Elks Club since 2025 — affiliations that underscore her ongoing engagement with industry developments.
Ms. Henry set a strong educational foundation for her achievements. After earning a high school diploma, she pursued specialized training that would shape her career trajectory. In 2017, she completed a certification program in nonprofit leadership and management at the Community Resource Center, equipping her with essential skills for effective organizational leadership. She has obtained additional credentials as a professional dog trainer, a trick dog instructor, a canine life and social skills evaluator, a level one TAGTeach instructor and a canine good citizen evaluator through The American Kennel Club.
The contributions Ms. Henry has made to her industry and community have garnered well-deserved accolades. In 2017, she received the Shining Star Award by then-governor of Colorado John Hickenlooper, in association with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. The previous year, Ms. Henry was honored with the Cappi Service Animal Award from the Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition. She credits her success to the significant role that mentorship has played in her career, with particular gratitude toward Ian Dubar, whose guidance helped her refine her approach to animal training and nonprofit management.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Ms. Henry has demonstrated longstanding commitment to civic engagement and community service. She has contributed as a volunteer horse trainer, providing horseback riding lessons to children in foster care. Moreover, she supported the Special Olympics powerlifting team, further exemplifying her dedication to empowering individuals.
Guided by Ms. Henry, Domino Service Dogs has forged partnerships with numerous nonprofit organizations, including the Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition, the Northwest Center for Independent Living, the Chelsea Hutchison Foundation, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the 1221 Foundation, the Rocky Mountain Health Foundation, the Epilepsy Foundation and the Chinook Foundation. These collaborations have broadened the organization’s impact and strengthened its mission of promoting independence through service animals.
Born in Portland, Oregon, Ms. Henry is a proud and loving mother to four children. She enjoys spending time with dogs as well as hiking and walking in nature. In the years ahead, she plans to ensure the continued success of Domino Service Dogs by preparing a successor to assume her responsibilities. Her career embodies unwavering dedication to animal welfare and community, and she intends for that mission to continue without interruption when she is ready to retire.