Since the start of the school year, students in the Ogdensburg City School District can look forward to visits on a regular basis by the district’s four therapy dogs, in an effort to create a positive school environment and improve students’ social-emotional health. The district is in the process of adding a fourth dog to the team.
“Our staff around the district have noted the positive effects of having therapy dogs in our classrooms,” Assistant Superintendent Brooke Reid said. “The dogs have lifted the moods of both students and staff while also providing opportunities to encourage kindness, build self-esteem, and practice social skills. There is nothing like the warm reception of a dog, and their presence seems to bring out the best in everyone!”
Meet OCSD’s team of therapy dogs
The district’s therapy dogs have earned their American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification, Urban CGC certification, and passed their tests for the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. They were trained and tested by trainer Michaela Lawton from Mountainside K9, in Rensselaer Falls, N.Y.
Mickey
Mickey is a three-year-old Border Collie mix who is cared for and handled by the District’s Assistant Superintendent Brooke Reid.
Primarily assigned to Ogdensburg Free Academy, Mickey accompanies Mrs. Reid on visits to John F. Kennedy and Grant C. Madill Elementary. Recently, Mickey was a guest reader with Mrs. Reid at JFK Elementary where they read “How To Be A Good Dog” to students.
On duty two days a week, Mickey has already been a reliever of emotional distress in many students at OFA. Initially, Mickey had a fear of the stairs in the building as the flooring felt different under his feet, but inevitably learned to conquer that fear.
Mickey also attends professional development sessions, staff meetings, and sits in during job interviews to aid the adults in the district who may be experiencing stress or anxiety.
Stella
Stella is a three-year-old English Cream Golden Retriever handled by caretaker and AIS Reading Teacher Jessica Pauquette.
Beginning her career as a therapy dog on Dec. 4, 2023, Stella primarily spends time at Grant C. Madill Elementary. She is always on a leash and by Mrs. Pauquette’s side.
Working two days a week, Stella provides comfort to both students and staff alike. Stella also performs tasks such as hallway duty to make sure students passing by are aware of her calming presence as they move through the building.
Mrs. Pauquette mentioned Stella begins to whine in excitement when turning onto Jefferson Avenue – she knows she is on her way to school!
Chubbs
Chubbs is a one-year-old English Bulldog who is cared for by handler and Speech/Language Teacher Teresa Kearns. The newest member of the team, Chubbs will be working with Mrs. Kearns at John F. Kennedy Elementary two days per week, once his paperwork and red heart arrive in the mail. The red heart tag is a recognizable tag that states that a dog and the handler have passed certification tests and are members of the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.
Daisy
Finally, meet chocolate lab Daisy, who has completed two courses to date and will receive her certifications once she turns one.
This therapy dog program was championed by a group of students who were taking a public speaking class at Ogdensburg Free Academy during last school year. They approached the board of education to advocate for the program, which the board approved.
