Duke Ellington of Delaware the therapy dog

01/02/2026

12/31/2025

In Loving Memory of Duke Ellington of Delaware
Therapeutic Support Dog | PAWS for People
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Duke Ellington of Delaware, a devoted therapeutic support dog with PAWS for People, whose life was marked by service, compassion, and unwavering love for others.

Duke was a Golden Doodle, expertly trained by retired police officer Mark Tovin, and achieved his K9 Good Citizen Certification at just one year old—a testament to his remarkable temperament and intelligence. He later earned his STEX Certification with PAWS for People, allowing him to serve in the highest capacity of therapeutic and trauma response work.

Alongside his companion and handler, Dr. Dawn Sheree Paramore, Duke faithfully served at Tranquil Solutions for a Centered Mind, LLC, where he became an integral part of therapeutic care. His impact extended far beyond the practice walls. Duke provided therapeutic support to countless individuals and communities, including:

Vaughn Correctional Facility
The Terry Center
Skyline Middle School
A.I. duPont Middle School
Leech Middle School
Southern Middle School
Colonial School District
Red Clay Consolidated School District

Duke was especially known for his exceptional trauma response work, offering comfort during moments of extreme loss, crisis, and emotional distress. His calm presence, intuitive responses, and affectionate nature brought peace where words could not.

In partnership with Dr. Paramore, Duke also played a pivotal role in helping curate trauma response teams for PAWS for People and contributed to the development of the Dogs in Schools Program, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to support and heal others for years to come.

Duke was deeply affectionate and found his greatest joy in helping others. His service was not just a duty—it was his purpose.

While Duke’s family and community are devastated by this loss, they continue to place their faith and trust in God during this difficult time, grateful for the immeasurable love and healing Duke brought into the world.

Duke Ellington of Delaware will forever be remembered for his gentle spirit, faithful service, and the countless lives he touched. His legacy lives on in every heart he helped heal.

06/14/2024

Me once I remove my lace wig!

05/14/2024

Thank you Epicur Pharma for the complementary service/therapy dog annual eye visit!

05/02/2024

ANNOUNCEMENT...

I am pleased to announce that I have confirmed my position as a member of the Behavioral Science Advisory Board for Wilmington University!

It will be my honor to represent the student voice while ensuring our curriculum remains cutting edge for excellence in the discipline of Behavioral Science.

Dr. Dawn Sheree Paramore
Wilmington University
Doctorate of Social Science
in Prevention Science

03/31/2024

Join me for my book launch!

Apr 11, 7:30PM: Dr. Dawn Sheree's book launch on forgiveness. Includes table read, Q&A, discussion. Don't miss it!

10/13/2021

GO PURPLE DELAWARE!!!

07/11/2021