Santa Maria-Bonita School District: Kids get hands-on experience with therapy dogs

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Life’s been tough for some 7th graders.

"It’s been very stressful you know like my grades went down," said student Izaiah Shandurger of Fesler Junior High School in Santa Maria.

But during lunch break, there was no fear, as several
furry friends like “Ella” came by.

"Having fun because like I’m getting to hang out with the dogs and stuff
that therapy dolls which is which makes me happy and I been going through a
lot so it just makes me very calm and relax and it gives me good energy," said Shandurger.

Nine therapy dog teams visited the campus to hang out with students and staff.

"It’s been a tough year if I’m being honest having a dog like this is
relaxing very relaxing 10 out of 10 would pet him again," said student Neri Reyes of Fesler Junior High.

"It’s going fantastic the kids have been wonderful they’re just love having
Allie here it brings smiles I’ve heard giggling it brings confidence it
reduces stress and they just love having her," said owner Susan Donahue of her dog Ella.

Each group of students spent about 10 minutes with each of the different
dog teams.

"Well I saw a therapy dog I think it’s awesome the kids were right I really
enjoyed seeing it," said teacher Kelly Porter of Fesler Junior High School.

Students said they hope to get to play with these therapy dogs again soon.