What's happening: Ramsey High School counselor Dr. Hayley Spector has a special new colleague joining her at the high school—a black lab mix named Brody. At three years old, Brody isn't just a friendly face; he's a highly trained therapy dog, and he's making a significant impact on students and staff.
From Good Dog to Therapy Dog: The inspiration to bring a therapy dog to the school district came from past experiences with therapy dogs in other districts. She recognized Brody's calm, gentle nature and knew he had the right temperament for the job.
To become a registered therapy dog team, Dr. Spector and Brody completed a rigorous program that included:
🐾 A 6-week preparatory class focusing on temperament, basic commands, and building a strong bond between handler and dog.
🐾 A comprehensive test assessing their relationship, Brody's behavior with strangers, and his overall temperament.
🐾 Three supervised visits to a nursing home to help him adjust to various noises and environments.
All in a Dog’s Work: Brody is on the job every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at RHS. His days are a mix of scheduled visits and spontaneous interactions. He works with students in need, helps with the morning check-in and greeting process, and is often seen walking the halls during class transitions. He also visits classrooms upon request and has even been part of an AP Psychology lesson on learning and behavior.
Dr. Spector believes the possibilities are endless regarding the impact Brody and a full canine support program could have on the District.
“I would love for the therapeutic, social, emotional and educational benefits of therapy dogs become consistent in schools as an available resource for all students and staff,” Dr. Spector shared.
Making an Impact, One Paw at a Time: Brody's presence has a noticeable effect on the school community. He serves as an instant conversation starter, helping to open up dialogue in a way that can be difficult to facilitate otherwise. The benefits extend to staff as well, who are always happy to see him and ask about his favorite toys and treats.
Looking Ahead: Brody is part of a pilot program for the high school, intending to expand the therapy dog program. For parents who may have questions, Spector assures them that all safety protocols are in place and that Brody's role is carefully managed to ensure a safe and pawsitive experience for everyone.
