Therapy dogs score high in help

I just wanted to respond to your article about dogs in school. (Sunday, “Schools look at whether animals belong there.”)

Working as a chemical dependency counselor at Lynnwood High School this year, and the last three years at Snohomish and Glacier Peak high schools, I can tell you that Ari has made my job easier and has brought positive energy to school. He is an Icelandic sheepdog who is certified as a therapy dog. He started working with me at school and became a fixture at Snohomish and Glacier Peak.

This year, since I am new to Lynnwood High School, he has helped me connect with students and staff. Many times, while having lunch, or when we are walking around, kids come up to pet him. While they are petting him, they start asking me questions about alcohol and drugs. More than likely this would not have happened if Ari did not break the ice.

I have had students and staff stop in to see him when they are upset or stressed out. I have had students and staff who have lost a family member or pet come in and just sit with him. Finally, he has helped a few kids get over their fear of dogs to the point that they sit down and pet him. I have yet to see any kids mistreat him. In fact, I have seen the opposite happen. There are certain things I have to do keep him certified. He has to be up to date on his vaccinations and has to be clean. He gets brushed weekly.

Steve Londino BA, CDP
Lynnwood