For the first time ever, two therapy dogs visited Montera Middle School, lowering student stress level, on Jan. 23. The next scheduled visit will happen on April 24 in room 303, during lunch.
Dogs boost the general wellness of people by relieving anxiety, which is very helpful for students, especially during testing periods. “The Wags for Wellness program aims to build community through stress relief activities and raise awareness of mental health and wellness resources on campus. Studies show that just petting a dog or cat can lower your blood pressure,” according to the Wags for Wellness website.
The day of the visit, a line of students waited patiently to hold and pet one of the furry companions in room 303. Clover, a cavalier king charles spaniel, was content with being held a lot by the students. Bailey, a Australian shepherd and border collie mix, handled the pets by walking around a circle of students. Both dogs seemed in heaven to have the attention of the eager students.
“It was amazing and I felt like it was really helpful to cope with anxiety,” said Piper Miura, 8th grader, after going to the schools therapy dog session. In another interview, 8th grader Maia Pung-Yamato stated, “It was very relaxing, and the dogs there were so cute!”
Counselors Nico Ramos, Malia White, and Erica Saephan organized this meet up. Malia gave the contact information of the company Joy Bound to Ramos. Joy Bound connects volunteer dog owners and Saephan gave the tactical support. Ramos was able to set up the meet and greet.
“Before I came to Montera, I had seen my old school try this with therapy dogs. I remember how happy everyone was after and wanted that same impact here,” said Ramos in a recent interview. “I truly think this is the best form of supporting mental health because as long as you are not allergic to or afraid of dogs it is both fun and impactful.”