Puppy brings cuddles, tail-wagging, and emotional support to students
By Shelby Siegfried
for the Register
St. Patrick Elementary School in McCook has welcomed a new staff member to its roster, but this one won’t be grading papers or leading classes.
Patrick, a friendly white Labrador puppy recently joined the school as an emotional support animal in training. With his wagging tail and soft fur, Patrick’s role is simple yet powerful: be a furry friend.
“It’s been a longtime dream of mine to have a therapy dog for the school,” said Rebecca Redl, principal. Patrick was donated to the school’s annual GIFT Gala fundraiser auction in March. After noticing his calm personality, Redl and Father Bernard Kimminau, chief administration officer for the school, researched the logistics of having a therapy animal. A generous supporter purchased Patrick at the auction and donated him to the school.
“He brings so much joy to the students and staff,” Redl said. “People light up when they see Patrick.”
The pup resides with Redl and accompanies her to school every day. When Patrick puts on his bandana in the morning, he knows it’s time to work. Patrick is supervised at all times in the classrooms, on the playground, and in the hallways. Redl noted that he still has puppy tendencies, such as wanting to put everything in his mouth, so chewing toys are plentiful.
An essential part of Patrick’s training is becoming accustomed to the sights, sounds, and smells of school. He’s learned basic commands and is receiving obedience training, which was donated by Pam Gaston, professional trainer of Pet Pros in McCook. Gaston has also trained students and staff on how to interact with the pup. After two months of professional therapy dog training this summer, Patrick will be fully equipped to perform therapy animal duties next school year.
Therapy dogs like Patrick are different from service dogs, which are trained to assist individuals with specific tasks related to physical disabilities. Therapy animals have become more common in schools as research has shown that they offer many positive effects such as boosting self-esteem, increasing motivation, reducing stress, and providing a sense of comfort and security.
For some students, the addition of a school dog is an opportunity to grow in virtue. The St. Patrick fifth-grade stewardship class has taken on the responsibility of organizing a fundraiser to help pay for Patrick’s food and supplies.
“We all love him so much. The students enjoy seeing Patrick around the school and they love to hug and pet him,” Redl said. “Patrick will be invaluable in helping students whether it’s building confidence, just needing a cuddle or being there with a student to practice reading. We can tell that he is going to be a great part of our school as he continues to learn and grow into his role.”
SNR photos | Shelby Siegfried
