The North Star Therapy Dogs returned to Park for their final visit of the year, helping students to get out of the end of year slump that May brings.
Finals have brought stress to all students at Park. According to Junior Chloe Lorentz, the therapy dogs coming to Park bring a relaxing break for students.
“It’s just a pause from the day to day, it’s fun and it’s calming,” Lorentz said. “Especially coming close to finals and to take your mind off things.”
The dogs raised dopamine levels of all dog lovers across the school. According to handler Cathie Briggs, an associate handler who brought in Briggs the dog, students were happy the minute they walked into the room.
“Well just look at your classmates. Do they look happier since they walked in the room?” Briggs said. “The dogs are bringing that to them.”
This visit for the therapy dogs will be the final visit of the year. The dogs have come three times this school year, and according to Lorentz they will be back next year.
“I think it’s special how so many different people come and connect with the dogs,” Llorentz said. “We are already planning for the dogs to return next school year.”
You can sign up for the events on a Sign Up Genius linked on the Natural Helpers Instagram. The dogs brought a lot of stress relief to students who enjoyed their visits. Tirado said as a dog lover she will definitely be returning.
“I love dogs so I wanted to sign up,” Tirado said. “I think it was a great way to take a break during these final stressful weeks of the year.”
Bibi the dog is a regular volunteer at North Star and according to Briggs, he loves coming to Park.
“He’s been here once in the fall,” said Briggs. “We like the kids here, but most importantly Bibi loves the kids here. He feels comfortable around young children. Bibi wants to come back, he loves seeing you all.”
The dogs are hosted by the Natural Helpers club and will be returning in the 2024-25 school year.
