The back-to-school season is filled with excitement, energy, and sometimes a little anxiety. That’s where DBL Facility Dogs step in—bringing calm, connection, and unconditional love to students and staff alike. Facility Dogs are trained in a variety of interactive behaviors and tasks to maximize their impact in schools, helping to create a welcoming environment for all.
Kristin and Major
Sherry and Rowan
At Silas High School, Kristin and Facility Dog Major are heading into their fourth year together. With his familiar wag and warm presence, Major has become a steady source of comfort for students and staff. Kristin shares, “Major is accustomed to the routine and excited to reunite with his human friends. This dream team is ready to support students and staff during this stressful time by providing a safe space and doggy cuddles!” You can even follow Major’s journey on Instagram at @majortherapylab.
For Facility Dog Rowan, the start of the school year means enthusiastic greetings from kids who remember him from the year before. Sherry reflects, “Walking through the halls for the early days of school when the children are excited and yell ‘Rowan,’ I am reminded that Rowan’s impact is not just for therapy sessions, but for all the children and staff in the school. Rowan puts a smile on people’s faces everywhere he goes.”
Meaghan and Alder greet a student
Facility Dog Alder has quickly become a beloved part of his school community. Meaghan shares, “Alder has been instrumental in helping us start strong on our new campus—always there to support our students with special needs, and really, all our students. Everywhere we walk, kids light up and call out, ‘Hi Alder!’ Everyone needs a buddy, and we’re lucky to have him..”
“Alder has been instrumental in helping us start strong on our new campus—always there to support our students with special needs, and really, all our students. Everywhere we walk, kids light up and call out, ‘Hi Alder!’ Everyone needs a buddy, and we’re lucky to have him..”
Mackenzie and Archie
And at the university level, Facility Dog Archie is making an impact alongside the Central Washington University Police. Mackenzie shares, “Archie the Facility Dog and the University Police are excited to welcome students back for a new school year! After a fun summer, Archie is ready to see familiar faces, meet new ones, and be part of the positive (pawsitive) impact our Wildcat community will make this year.”
We’re so proud to celebrate another school season with our incredible Facility Dogs and their dedicated handlers. Their partnership makes a lasting difference in countless lives.
Don’t miss the photo slideshow below, highlighting some of our DBL Facility Dogs currently working in school settings. We wish you an amazing school year! Learn more about Facility Dogs here.
