On Tuesday January 8th, 2019, Mrs. Melissa Moore kicked off the new year by bringing a furry friend.

Jake, her four-year-old English Lab Retriever, joined all her classes in a social experiment with regards to how an animal’s presence can improve not only an individual’s mental outlook, but the classroom climate, and by extension, school climate, as well.

There are many studies on how therapy dogs benefit schools. There are definite mental benefits, but there are physical, social, and cognitive ones as well. Around twenty-five percent of teenagers suffer from anxiety disorders. An animal presence could lift the mood of the classroom, and even provoke laughter (as was evidenced in Mrs. Moore’s research).  A therapy animal could provide a friend to shy or lonely kids. Social benefits include greater self-esteem and more focused interaction with others.  

A furry friend is shown to reduce blood pressure and help with pain management. If a student was injured on campus, it would be helpful to hold onto a loving pet while awaiting help. A therapy dog has even  been proven to stimulate memory and problem-solving skills.  

When Mrs. Moore was asked about Jake, she was very pleased with how the day went. “Dogs have a calming effect on people. They help release oxytocin, [a chemical in the brain], which reduces stress.”

Most of Mrs. Moore’s students were loving towards Jake; however, she did have a few who are not dog people. Even these individuals eventually petted the friendly lab before leaving class. “Jake really enjoyed being around people,” Mrs. Moore concluded. “It was just a fun day.’

Maybe one day CHS will have a therapy dog of its own for the school to enjoy. Until then, this reporter recommends service pets at every EOC and AP exam to boost memory and problem-solving!