For years, it has been said that a dog is man’s best friend, and our devoted handlers at Pet Partners continue the effect of those words by tending to the care of those dedicated four-legged individuals who visit numerous places, offering their support to us humans.
Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Bessemer’s Middle School to witness their Therapy Dog Session Day. These particular students have proven model exemplifications within our school system through perfect attendance, behavior, and grades and had the privilege to visit with our furry friends: Bodie, a golden retriever, and Lilly, a Yorkshire terrier.
Pet Partners handler Ms. Jill Atlas told us, “Today we came to take a load off of our kids. Therapy Dogs provide partnership and visits to those who may be sickly, along with doing what we’re doing today, which is visiting schools to offer and share support for our children throughout their school days, which may be stressful at times.”
The session provided warmth for the enthusiastic students, who also took delight in sharing their thoughts regarding the experience. Student Immanuel Clay told us, “We’ve learned in school to be calm and act right amongst our teachers and fellow students. Pet Therapy has taught us how much we’re all alike and also how to have fun with one another.”
As student Autumn Whitfield continued such a thought, she stated, “I’ve learned to be calm around animals and never speak bad about them, even if they have a defect or seem different — which is the same we should do when it comes to other humans.”
Other students spoke about the importance of the session, as teacher Ms. Campbell shared her animal rescue experiences: “This gives our kids time to forget personal issues and school stress, to have social time and pet the dogs, which becomes a positive moment for them.”
Through a recent school grant award, students were able to enjoy such a visit. Dr. Yuvraj Verma also stated, “Students not only get to spend this day within the academic aspect but also by exploring social and emotional perspectives.”
For those interested in the services of or working with such animal rescue organizations, visit petpartners.org or dixiegirldogrescue.org for more information.
Thanks to Teachers: Dr. Yuvraj Verma, Brandon Baum, and Rachel Campbell; Principal Dominique Moore; AP Darral Bethel and Sarah Person; and our four-legged friends, who help many of us in countless ways. We continue to recognize that each individual deserves fair treatment as a human or animal, no matter what.
“Let’s Live Together Peacefully All.”