Dogs are generally a crowd favorite. Although some are scared of these pooches, it’s really hard to deny how cute and cuddly they all look. Seeing those adorable puppy eyes is a real challenge to resist. They also give the best furry hugs and kisses.
At Franklin High School in Portland, Oregon, students and staff are so lucky because they get to see Archie the Labradoodle, the school’s therapy dog, every day. He comes to work daily together with his hooman and Franklin High’s French teacher, Dana Miller.
Archie was first adopted as a pet. However, Dana saw how their pet dog connected with everyone. One day, they walked home and saw an old lady in a wheelchair who wanted to meet Archie. The pup laid his head on the old woman’s lap and started crying as she was petting him.
This incident made Dana realize that Archie could have the potential to become a therapy dog. She then decided to get the pooch certified in animal-assisted interactions with a volunteer group called Pet Partners.
Five years ago, Archie visited a class at Franklin High School with students who had anxiety. The furry friend’s presence made a big difference to the overall mood of the class. From then on, Archie was hired to become part of the school’s staff.
The good boy also has his staff ID badge, a picture in the yearbook, and a daily schedule just like any other employee. Archie is also considered as Franklin High School’s unofficial mascot. He always attends different events and was also part of the school’s play of the show “Annie.”
Archie gets to receive unlimited belly rubs and pets from the students. He also goes on walks with the intensive skills care class in the mornings. Besides visiting classes from time to time, Archie also loves to sleep under Dana’s table and gets up whenever a student needs his help.
Once, there was a student who had anger issues and needed some help. His teacher would tell him to go and get Archie, and they would take a walk around the campus. After more than an hour, he would return to class feeling calmer and better.
Even when some don’t really ask for help, Archie could sense when someone is anxious and stay with them anyway. He has become a big help to students, teachers, and staff going through trying times. Boops for good boy Archie!
Video Credit: The Oregonian