Service Animal Provides Light in Dark Times
Golden Retriever boosts morale around campus
Photos By: Jada Boner
With a furry addition to her classroom, Danielle Scroggins teaches her Physics and Environmental Science classes with her students in mind. Daisy, a four year old Golden Retriever, makes her way around the room checking in on the wellbeing of students and her owner. Scroggins plans on finishing up Daisy’s American Kennel Club internship at Decatur High School this semester.
“He greets students in the morning, helps relieve tears and fears, motivates students, rewards students for their hard work or good behavior, and even listens to students read to him,” Scroggins said. “Studies show that therapy dogs contribute to the overall school climate because of their warmth and acceptance.”
Dogs provide humans with insurmountable feelings that most struggle to find in people. They offer people reassurance that their dogs remain loyal to their owners and provide this sense of security. Bringing a dog into the classroom, provides possible change in a student’s life and they carry that assurance that Daisy will greet them when class begins. With testing the waters on how well Daisy does with students, she comes up about three times a week.
“I’ve always wanted a Golden Retriever. I read the book The Watchers by Dean Koontz in high school, and fell in love with the dog in that book that happened to be a golden,” Scroggins said.
It takes a moment in someone’s life to realize that one of their purposes means trying to make someone else’s life better. Scroggins found a book that she happened to read and ever since then, she found a time in her life to pursue her dream. Daisy not only means so much to her owner, but the students who truly rely on her to be there in class to help them through a rough day. Though Scroggins went through a big process, she remained consistent which she claims must be the key figure in training a dog.
“This last year has been exhausting mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” Scroggins said. “While training and working with a therapy dog has been a lifelong goal, this year it felt urgently necessary. I think we are all weary from the pressure of this last year, and I’m hoping Daisy will bring some light to end the year on a positive note.”
Follow Daisy on:
Instagram: @Daniellas_daisy
Twitter: @DaniellasDaisy
Henley Sears • May 17, 2021 at 8:23 am
great story! before reading this, I didn’t know who Daisy was and why there was a dog in the school. But now, it makes sense and it is a great idea. I like all of the background information. Overall great writing!
Alicia guevara • May 17, 2021 at 8:20 am
It is great that daisy is finishing up American Kennel Club internship at Decatur High School this semester and that daisy is here helping students emotions
Avi Lujan • May 17, 2021 at 8:13 am
I enjoyed how dedicated she was to train Daisy & how she stuck with her goal even if it was difficult physically & mentally. I can’t wait to see more of how Daisy impacts students on her well being.
Alexis Bishop • May 17, 2021 at 8:10 am
I appreciate that the dog got her own story. I always see her in the halls, and she makes me smile everyday right before a class I dread. Her being there is always a plus, and I’m happy to learn she helps other students as well. I’m glad I finally got to know her “backstory” as well.
Kayley MacKenzie • May 17, 2021 at 8:09 am
I think having a service dog in the classroom is a great idea especially for some kids who have anxiety.
ashlynn miller • May 17, 2021 at 8:08 am
this is a great article, i like how it really makes you feel connected to daisy and the pictures really helped see how polite and well mannered she is. i really enjoyed reading this and would look forward t reading more about daisy later on.
Macey Owens • May 17, 2021 at 8:06 am
Great job! This article really informs people on what Daisy does and why she’s here. Before reading, I didn’t know what Daisy did, I didn’t even know her name. You have good quotes and information along with a picture, keep it up.
jennifer romo • May 17, 2021 at 8:02 am
nice article. daisy is a nice dog
nico vera • May 17, 2021 at 8:01 am
I enjoyed reading about Daisy and what they have been doing around the school.
George R. • May 17, 2021 at 7:54 am
I enjoyed the topic covered! I have heard about and seen the dog but didn’t know as to why it had appeared out of the blue. I wasn’t aware of all the reasons of why its here and the students opinion on it, so genuinely a helpful article! And the background info on why it was chosen as the service animal was a cool fact too.