Day 46

6/26/22

Arthur was my first Therapy Dog and he was a true angel! He was older when he certified but, at age six, we were tested and ready to hit the road!

Therapy Dogs were not allowed to visit area schools at that time, so we went to libraries and neighboring districts to read with kids. My entire career was teaching literacy to students from age six to 50 and beyond. In retrospect, my 2nd grade classes were really no different from my college students. Even seeking their Master's Degrees, everyone simply wants to learn, receive positive feedback and know that the teacher cares.

It was a joy for me to have Arthur by my side and sit down with elementary children as they would read to us. I could guide them, but usually, Arthur would whisper in my ear with a question or suggestion, which I would then share with the young reader to help them on their way.

One of our "regulars" was a 4th grader who did not seem to make good choices or handle stress well. Of course, Arthur didn't know that this particular student needed a behavioral para-professional with him and I would usually send her off on a break, then spend the time with just the three of us. In my opinion, para-professionals are amazing, kind, over-worked, underpaid angels who probably need more coffee breaks. I was happy to offer one!

One day, Arthur and I entered the office to check in at the front desk. The secretary informed us that our young charge was having a VERY challenging morning and the message had been sent down that we could work with others during his time. I suggested that Arthur and I might be able to help calm the situation. With a bit more communication, we were taken to a room other than the school library. Through the window, I could see three adults, our young friend angrily jumping on a small trampoline and angst on every face in the room. What I could hear was not much better!

I slowly opened the door to test the waters. There have been times when I have removed my Therapy Dogs from a situation where they might be harmed. They are my first priority! The adults looked at me with hopelessness written all over their body language and our young friend didn't even notice we had entered the room.

I softly called his name and told him Arthur and I were ready to read with him. His frantic jumping and yelling came to a halt and he said, "Oh!!! Hi Arthur! Let me run and get some books to read with you!"

He went out the door, under some watchful eyes, to return a few moments later with a stack of books. Getting the green light from the relieved educators in the room, we went to the library, he snuggled in with Arthur to read and we then took him back to his classroom.

Arthur was my first angel and he was amazing at what he could do with everyone he touched with his golden heart.
As Asher would say, "Hey Nanny! It's a good day!"
It was a good day indeed.