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’s therapy dogs have earned their American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen Certification (CGC), American Kennel Club (AKC) Urban Canine Good Citizen Certification (CGC), 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.
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.
Chubbs has a red heart tag – 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 the 2024-25 school year. They approached the Board of Education to advocate for this program, which the board approved.
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