The newest member of the Campbell River school district is friendly, outgoing and oh-so-snuggly.
That's because he's a four-month-old golden retriever named Otter.
Having a critical response and trauma service dog join the team is "groundbreaking" for the school district, said School District 72.
Unlike most service dogs that focus on helping a single individual, Otter's rigorous training will allow him to support a range of people, such as students coping with grief, loss, anxiety depression, autism and post-traumatic stress disorder.
He will also be a shoulder to lean on for staff members.
"His work will enhance the counselling services offered in our schools, helping students learn to manage their emotions, build trust, and develop social skills," the district said in a personnel announcement, adding the pup joins the inclusive education program.
When he was much younger, Otter underwent a rigorous assessment conducted by SC1 Service Dogs. He passed with flying colours and was selected from his litter for the crucial role of a service dog.
Sherry Laffling, his owner and handler, who works as a counsellor at Cedar Elementary, described Otter as a sweet and nurturing dog who adores people, especially kids.
"It's a dream of mine to work with a dog as part of what I do to support kids in counselling," said Laffling, who has previous experience working with dogs as a therapeutic tool and has seen the positive impact.
"We wanted to step it up a notch, with a service dog, where the dog could intervene and provide assistance to people for a number of tasks."
Studies shows that animals can connect with people in ways that human interactions may not always achieve. Dogs offer non-judgmental support, fostering a sense of safety and trust, Laffling said.
Otter will also be trained to detect cortisol levels in people and help them lower their stress levels.
Right now, the counsellor-dog duo are training several days a week with SC1 Service Dogs. Otter has already completed his Level 1 training and will continue to develop his skills, completing Levels 2 and 3 by December.
At 18 months, Otter will undergo rigorous assessments at the BC Justice Institute to earn his service dog certification, followed by the M-SAR certification – the highest level of service dog qualification to work in vulnerable sectors, said the school district.
His name, "Otter," was selected for the marine mammal's profound significance in Indigenous communities. Otters are said to bring good fortune and represent empathy, friendship, peace, kindness and family. The district said those qualities fit perfectly with the role Otter will play in schools.
Otter will work primarily at Cedar Elementary School. He is from the dog breeders, Black Creek Golden Retrievers.
