Meet Noca, a Therapy-Dog Sweetheart
A Siberian Husky with a heart for kids, a soft spot for local trails, and a calendar full of good deeds—Noca has turned everyday walks and neighborhood hellos into something bigger. Here, her family shares how she got her name, what makes her tick, and the Hershey-area spots that feel most like home
Q: How long has your family lived in the neighborhood? What do you like most about living here?
A: We’ve lived in the Indian Run community since 2013. We love the people, the sense of community, and how close we are to walking trails and local businesses.
Q: What’s your pet’s name, age, sex, and breed/type? Any interesting background about the breed?
A: Noca—she turns 9 on March 27. Female, Siberian Husky. She’s a therapy dog for local places like Hershey Medical Center, the Ronald McDonald House, and the Hershey and Middletown libraries. Fun fact: Noca’s breeder raised Siberian Huskies that were featured in the movie Eight Below.
Q: When and how did your pet come to join your family?
A: We lost the last of our two Siberian Huskies, Carolina and North. North passed—and a week later we found Noca and put a deposit on her. We picked her up at 8 weeks old, outside of Somerset, PA.
Q: Is there a story behind your pet’s name? How did your family come up with it?
A: I’ve been a North Carolina basketball fan since I was a kid. I watched basketball with my mom, and when she passed when I was 19, it was something that really stuck with me. In 2000, I got my first husky—Carolina. She lived 14.5 years. In 2001, I got my second husky—North. He lived 15.5 years. After North passed, I made it a week and put a deposit on Noca in 2017. We tossed names around, and our family photographer (we use them every year) texted me “Noca”—joining North (No) and Carolina (Ca). Sounds like Mocha, but with an N!
Q: What’s the one trait or behavior that makes your pet stand out?
A: She loves people and kids… especially the Hershey Fire Department. She’s very gentle with children. She’s grown up alongside our three grandsons, and she’s naturally calm with kids.
Q: Does your pet have any unique talents or tricks?
A: She’s a therapy dog and loves visiting places. She’s also great at begging for food and treats—and she’ll sit and give you a high five.
Q: Does your pet have any favorite toys or treats?
A: She’s had her hedgehog since she was a puppy. It’s her pal when she’s tired.
Q: What’s your favorite memory with your pet?
A: We used to visit our grandsons’ preschool in Hershey, and they would tell their class fun facts about Noca. The kids could pet her if they wanted to…and leave with a little fur on their clothes to take home.
Q: Where does your pet love to hang out in the neighborhood? Who are their favorite playmates?
A: Noca enjoys chasing bunnies, squirrels, and whatever else shows up in our fenced-in yard. But she ultimately loves walking on the trail and sitting on the swing along Waltonville. She loves walking every day and seeing her besties in the neighborhood—Ollie, Teddy, Ginger, Oliver, Willow, Sunce, Millie, Riesling, and Mimosa.
Q: Are there any local businesses or parks your pet especially enjoys visiting?
A: All kinds of places—but mostly the spots she does pet therapy: Hershey Medical Center, the Ronald McDonald House, the Hershey and Middletown libraries, and anywhere she’s welcome.
A (bonus): Noca has also been a big part of the Hershey Fire Company’s tours throughout the Hershey & Hummelstown area—often providing a little doggie humor as they drive by her house.
Q: If your pet could choose any adventure, what would it be?
A: She loves the car and going places with us—but ultimately, she’d probably choose walks with her besties. Maybe a ride in the firetruck with Santa.
Q: Any local businesses—or fellow residents/pets—you’d recommend for potential features?
A: Doggie Delights in the Hershey Farm Market (she loves treats), Paw Spa (where Angie grooms Noca), and Animal Healthcare in Hershey (where she has her vet visits).