Therapy dogs returned on October  22, 2024, in the Community Room at BHS. This is the fifth year therapy dogs have been part of the BHS family. The Guidance Department partners with Creature Comfort, a nonprofit organization, based in Madison, NJ to bring in creatures of all sizes. The dogs give a well-deserved break to students and staff during both lunch blocks every other month. 

On October 24th, the two stars of the show were George, a 140-pound Leonberger brought in by his owner Stephen Kovalsky, and Buddy, a 70-pound Golden Retriever brought in by his owner Dana Spero. The two of them were an instant hit and boosted the moods of many students. 

During this time of the school year, students feel immense pressure, whether it be college applications or the normal day-to-day workload. 

As seniors are starting to complete college applications, the time for having an uplifting school event is needed.  

Senior, Addison Chisolm who is at the height of her college applications said, “College applications have been stressing me out recently, and when I saw the opportunity for the dogs coming back I knew I needed to go and hang out for a little bit, they bring a sense of comfort to me.” 

Not only is it beneficial to students and staff at BHS, but the Therapy Dog program allows owners to connect with the school’s community to make it a better place, just like how dogs help them. 

Dana brings in Buddy for a special reason close to her heart: “I grew up with dogs and have had them since I was 9 and they have always provided therapy and I wanted to do it for other people.”

Creature Comfort Organization also coordinates visits by cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs – another bonus for people going through a tough school day. This program has been bringing so much joy to the Bernards community since 2018 and will continue to shine brightly.