By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
For many children and adults, there are few things that bring a smile to their face easier than a dog. USD 428 in Great Bend has taken that notion and brought therapy dogs to almost every school building. A staff member at each school has to take on the responsibility of caring for the dog, but during the school hours the dog typically stays with a counselor and is there for any student needing a boost.
A therapy dog is sometimes called a comfort dog and support a person's mental health by providing attention and comfort.
USD 428 Superintendent Khris Thexton’s wife Rachel Thexton, a school counselor, is in charge of the
therapy dog at Great Bend High School, and Khris has been impressed with the
positive effect the dog has on the children.
"I would have never thought high school kids would have taken to a dog like that," said Khris Thexton. "The students can sit on the floor, and if they want the dog, the dog will pretty much lay on their lap."
The dogs have to go through special training and tests to make sure they will
be able to handle large groups and the daily activity of a school.
Lincoln Elementary School just received their therapy dog, named Haven, and
Principal Misty Straub said the dog is expected to be fully trained by next
school year.
"Dogs are dogs...they love food," said Straub. "Will she be able to manage herself smelling food service coming in and out? There will be kids with food on their hands, and there are snacks in the classroom. Being a puppy, we'll have to manage through that."
The middle school, high school and all the grade schools have a therapy dog
except Jefferson Elementary.