Leslie Horton started the Animal Assisted Care (AAC) Program on the Inova Fairfax Hospital Campus in 2001.  The AAC Program has extended to Inova Health System which includes 8 hospitals located in 5 locations. Leslie oversees the handler/canine teams and built an internationally recognized animal assisted care program.  She and her first canine Pet Partner, Chug, were recipients of the Delta Society 2005 Beyond Limits Award for Outstanding AAT Professionals. Leslie is Pet Partner Team Member with 3 dogs and Evaluator.  She is a registered nurse with extensive experience in trauma and intensive care nursing. She is a certified Animal Assisted Care Specialist. She has participated research studies regarding the safety and efficacy of AAI research studies with the Surgical Department of Trauma Services at IFMC. The last study looking at the efficacy of AAI in patients with traumatic brain injury was awarded 2023 TNCC Best Research Project. 

Leslie founded Most Fine Canine Inc. in 2001.  She holds certifications as a dog trainer, dog trainer advanced, professional dog trainer instructor, service dog trainer, and an Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator with specializations in Titles I, II, and III. She is a Team Leader Network ADA Trainer and assists businesses in the writing of policies for access of persons with disabilities. She provides expert testimony regarding therapy dogs and service dogs in local, county, state, and federal courts.  Leslie trains service dogs for children and adults with neurological and mobility disorders and veterans with PTSD.