About Hand in Paw

Piper Wood

Founder and President

Piper grew up in Altadena, California and felt an affinity with animals from birth. Her family dog was an abused rescue that was her childhood best friend. Soon, she was picking up stray dogs off the street, and any other animals that needed to be nursed back to health.

Piper attended USC, where she studied Psychology. She went on to earn a Masters Degree in Autism/Applied Behavioral Analysis, as well as a Masters Degree in Criminal Justice. She was a behavioral therapist for children and adults with Autism, and later became a Police Officer for the city of Glendale. She also earned her Culinary Arts degree and ran her private chef and catering business for several years. But animals have always been where her heart is. Hand in Paw is Piper's lifelong dream, and she is so honored to run such a wonderful organization.

Piper is also an animal activist and vegan advocate, fighting for all animals. Piper lives in Monrovia, California with all her rescue babies. She is also the CEO of the dog collar company, Givebones.