THERAPY DOGS
Accelerated School’s Therapy Dog Program helps support the emotional and physical health of our students. More details about this program, including requirements for being an ASOP therapy dog, are available here.
Meet ASOP’s two therapy dogs, Abby and Elton!
Abby
Owner: Diane Faile, ASOP Content Creator and Building Substitute
Breed: Bernese Mountain Dog
Nickname: Fuzzybutt
Birthday/Origin Story: October 10, 2022, in Paola, Kansas, at LionHeart Bernese. Her parents were Rose and Quinton. Abby’s American Kennel Club (AKC) registered name is “Lionhearts Home Coming Queen.”
Favorite Treat: Kong toy filled with bacon/cheese spread and biscuits.
Favorite Activities: Riding in the car and play dates with other dogs.
Personality: Sweet and patient, with a bit of attitude!
Training: Abby and Diane became a registered therapy animal team with Pet Partners, a national volunteer organization, in December 2023. Also in 2023, Abby earned her AKC Canine Good Citizen certificate in November and her AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy certificate in May. Abby continues to learn and practice basic and advanced obedience.
Elton
Owner: Leah Allen, ASOP Math Teacher
Breed: Aussie Shepherd/Lab mix
Nickname: Eltee
Birthday/Origin Story: January 30, 2022. Elton was adopted when he was 3 months old from Midwest Animal ResQ in Raytown, Missouri.
Favorite Treat: Jerky treats and food snuck off the counter tops when no one is looking.
Favorite Activities: Loves to play frisbee! Enjoys playing with other dogs and going on long walks.
Personality: A big goofball!
Training: Elton and Leah became a registered therapy animal team with Pet Partners, a national volunteer organization, in September 2023. Elton earned his AKC Canine Good Citizen certificate in May 2023. Elton continues to learn and practice basic and advanced obedience.
IN MEMORIAM
Harrison
b. 2009 - d. 2022
Certified therapy dog at ASOP 2020 - 2022 with owner Annie Swartz, ASOP Principal
“When I needed a hand, I found your paw.”