Sterling Public Schools Therapy Dog Program

Therapy Dogs

Sterling Public School District has a team of professional therapy dogs and handlers working within each school to support student learning.

This innovative therapy dog program has received financial support from the Sterling Schools Foundation.

A professional therapy dog can provide various benefits and support to students, staff, and the overall school environment.

  • Provide emotional support

  • Stress Reduction/Reduced Anxiety

  • Increase School Engagement

  • Behavioral Improvements

  • Build Trust and Connection

  • Encourage Physical Activity

  • Provide Sensory Stimulation

  • Social Emotional Skil Development

Meet the Therapy Dogs

Chuli

Chuli

Franklin Elementary School

Handler: Jason Brown

Dean of Students

Breed: Black Lab

Favorite Food: Any dog treat

Oxford

Oxford

Jefferson Elementary School

Handler: Heather Wittenauer

Jefferson Elementary School Principal

Breed: Black Labrador Retriever 

Favorite Food: Taste of the Wild, Salmon or Lamb

Clem

Clem

Washington Elementary School

Handler: Jessica Truedson

5th Grade Special Education Teacher

Breed: Golden Retriever

Favorite Food: Ice Cubes and Peanut Butter in his Kong Ball

Hank

Hank

Lincoln Elementary School

Handler: Jackie Watson

Reading Specialist/Interventionist

Breed: Australian Labradoodle

Favorite Food: Popcorn

Brazil

Brazil

Challand Middle School

Handler: Amy Hoffman

CMS Counselor

Breed: Standard Poodle

Favorite Food: Yogurt

Favorite Game: Fetch

Favorite Period: Passing Period and Recess

Scone

Scone

Sterling High School

Handler: Cami Hartman

Sterling High School Counselor

Breed: Golden Doodle

Favorite Food: Ice Cubes and Training Treats

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Therapy Dog