Peotone’s New Therapists Have Wagging Tails

By Nick LaPapa, Peotone High School Student Guest Writer

On October 6, the buzz at Peotone Elementary School was different. You could feel a sense of excitement and curiosity in the halls of the school on that particular fall day. Students were informed there would be a special visitor. However, this visitor did not hold a typical teaching degree, which most of the staff holds within a school building.

This special visitor, named Doug, has obtained many certificates, completed hours of training, completed specialized testing, has unbelievable kindness to give, an amazing ability to create positive social opportunities, fur from head to tail, and stands on four paws. Indeed, this was the day Peotone School District launched its Therapy Dog Program, with the help and partnership of Peggy Moran’s School for Dogs. 

The overall main goal of the program is to improve the mental wellness of students and staff. Amy Loy, director of Special Services stated, “Therapy dog visits are a type of animal assisted intervention, and there is empirical evidence to support the benefits of the human/animal connection, which includes decreasing stress and increasing joy.”

With the increased popularity of therapy dogs, there is mounting evidence and studies showing the unbelievable amount of benefits they can provide, which include social, cognitive, emotional, mental, and physical benefits. The district is thrilled its students will have the opportunity to experience some of these wonderful benefits. 

All students had access to the dog during their recess, as well as a choice if they wanted to interact with Doug or not. He was a popular guy that day at recess. With tons of smiles, many students chose to interact with him. Doug even came back in the evening and joined Family Literacy Night. 

Carole Zurales, principal at Peotone Elementary, said, “It provided extra joy to their day. They were very excited, but also did a great job following the expectations to interact with the dog.” 

That first visit brought much success and joy to staff and students at Peotone Elementary. The other schools within the district are eager for their turn to meet Doug or possibly other therapy dogs. Therapy dogs and their handlers will have a rotating schedule and will be present at one of the district’s schools every Thursday throughout the school year, with first visits at PIC, PJHS, and PHS coming very soon.

Therapy dog, Doug, enjoying the attention at Peotone Elementary. –Photo submitted by Principal Carol Zurales.