Donna started bringing her certified therapy dog to Anderson School at the start of the school year in 2023. This year marks her third school year bringing her English Golden Retriever, Hunter, to the school. She reflects on the remarkable progress she has seen with the students over these years:
“At first, one little girl would not even look at Hunter. She had no interest. Now she hugs him!” shared Donna.
Pet therapy offers tremendous benefits to humans across many situations. Donna has had multiple certified therapy dogs who have offered relief and joy in nursing homes, hospitals, and in schools. No matter the situation, Hunter is ready to go to work as he loves being petted. Some days, she dresses him up in a tie so he is ‘super handsome’ and ready for work!
At Anderson School, most of the students are nonverbal and in wheelchairs, but none of that bothers Hunter. He is ready to lay on the floor next to the students or be right by their side in their wheelchair. When possible, students are out of their wheelchairs and on the floor on pillows to be able to feel Hunter next to them and pet him.
One little boy knows his name is Hunter but calls him ‘Pillow’!
Donna and Hunter visit Anderson School twice a month and after three years volunteering her time, she feels the excitement as the students greet Hunter. During initial visits, many of the students’ hands were clenched and the therapists would work with them to learn to open their hand to pet Hunter. Today, Donna remarks that some of the students are reaching out on their own to pet Hunter, opening up their hand to touch his soft fur.
While Donna knows the focus in on the students, she can’t help but notice the value to the Anderson School staff when Hunter enters the classrooms. Petting a dog can naturally lower one’s blood pressure, serve as a much-needed distraction, and be a simple source of joy petting his soft fur and cuddling with a furry friend.
Hunter’s bio can be found on our About Us page.
Learn more about Anderson School.
Contact us.
