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Visiting Dogs Comfort Students, Staff
Five dogs truly became best friends to the students and staff at all three district schools throughout the day on Feb. 13 as the dogs comforted the school community after the tragic death of Webutuck High School senior Noah Thompson on Feb. 10.
“They have brightened this day,” said Ray Castellani, Webutuck’s Superintendent of Schools, of the dogs. “They’ve turned tears and frowns into smiles. I really believe that without these dogs, it would have been a much more difficult day.”
Castellani added, “It’s tough. It’s still fresh for us. Our seniors and students who knew Noah are still having a very difficult time, but with the counseling that we have, all the resources that we have and especially the dogs, we’re making it through. Our attention is going to turn to Noah’s family and how we can support them.”
The five dogs -- Gus, Cole, Copper, Ollie and River -- were from Guardian Revival in Beacon. Guardian Revival is a non-profit group that revives and preserves the mental health and wellbeing of veterans and first responders.
Two of the dogs visiting the district were service dogs and the other three were trained to be service dogs. Dogs in the program pass a temperament test and are calm, easy-going animals to help people feel good and comfortable. The dogs will be placed eventually with a guardian, which is either a veteran or first responder.
“This is the first time we’ve been asked to do something like this,” said Sherry “Burger, director of breeding and training for Guardian Revival’s Boots & Paws program. “Without a doubt, the purpose of us being here today really is to provide emotional support to the staff and students who suffered a great loss.”
Grief counselors and staff were available to meet with students on Feb. 10 and 11. The support for students has continued this week.
Castellani said the district received assistance from the county and neighboring school districts. Offers from the Millbrook and Dover districts were accepted.
“All of our neighbors were willing to help,” said Castellani. “We’re thankful to them and forever grateful to them.”