In March 2020, Abbot Elementary School in Ann Arbor welcomed Star, a Bernedoodle who became the first full-time therapy dog in Ann Arbor Public Schools. Her arrival was an important step in bringing the benefits of school therapy dog programs to more Michigan students.
Inspired by Brighton’s Therapy Dog Program
Abbot Elementary Principal Pam Sica became interested in introducing a therapy dog after hearing about the dogs at Brighton Area Schools from her son, who attended school there. She reached out to Karen Storey, who had developed Brighton’s Pack of Dogs program. Karen helped connect the school with people and resources that could make a similar program possible in Ann Arbor.Bringing Star to Abbot Elementary
Star was donated by Mountain Doodles, while the Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Shop and private donors helped fund her training. Dog trainer Greg Lambert helped prepare Star for her new role, and second-grade teacher Kathleen Briggs became her handler. On her first day, students met Star during small assemblies and learned about her role in the school. The plan was for her to become part of everyday school life, visiting classrooms, spending time with students, and providing a calming presence for children who needed additional support. The school also considered students who were uncomfortable around dogs or had allergies, helping make Star’s introduction welcoming for the broader school community.Helping More Schools Welcome Therapy Dogs
Star’s arrival showed how the experience gained through Brighton’s therapy dog program could help other schools establish programs of their own. Karen’s early work with Ann Arbor reflected the same commitment that would later help shape 4 Pawz Strong: sharing knowledge, building community partnerships, and helping more students experience the companionship of therapy dogs.Read More About Star
Learn more about Star’s arrival at Abbot Elementary School through the original reporting:- Star Power: Therapy Dog Meets Abbot Students, Staff on Her First Day on the Job — Ann Arbor Public Schools, March 3, 2020.
- Canine Comfort — Ann Arbor Observer, March 14, 2020.