Adding to its already successful agriculture program, Ocoee High School now hosts doggie day care, officially titled Knights Kennel, Wednesdays and Fridays for faculty's furry friends.
Principal Lisa Karcinski first learned of the dog day care possibility while visiting Timber Creek High a few years ago. She saw firsthand how the students responded to caring for the animals and how it contributed to a positive work climate and culture and hoped to one day bring to her own school. When she asked Amy Anderson, Ocoee HS' animal sciences teacher, if she'd be interested, she was immediately on board.
"Adding the dog daycare to our campus was just another way to add to the incredible culture we have at Ocoee High School. There is a lot of research to support that being around dogs helps to alleviate stress and anxiety which is a benefit to both our students and staff. Overall, having the dogs on campus creates a more joyful work environment," Dr. Karcinski said.
Interested faculty submit a temperament profile and provide copies of vaccination records. They pay $5 per day, which goes back into the program. The nominal fee provides a benefit to both parties. Students learn how to invoice and budget for supplies needed and the faculty have an affordable option for their pets during the school day.
"My goals for the program would be to continue to offer services at a discounted rate. I would like to expand the days offered so we can eventually have dogs everyday," Anderson said. "Students are more excited about agriculture and wanting to be a part of the program. Students get so excited about interacting with the dogs when they are on campus."
Caesar, a rescue pup, had both his eyes removed due to advanced glaucoma. The students, like Melanie Smith, said even though he cannot see, his other senses are pronounced so he can hear and smell new people or pets around him.
At pickup time, a student shows Richard Martinez, Caesar's owner, a photo of his dog playing earlier in the day.
Adding the day care component will aide students in preparing for the Future Farmers of America's vet assisting competition, as students will be able to use the dogs to demonstrate various techniques required. Additionally, it will prepare students for the agriculture education Career Development Event since it is animal science this year and they can use lessons that relate to their program.
On the days the dogs are on campus, students walk them every other period, provide play time, and learn proper care and handling of the different sizes. Students also complete a PAWS-gress report period by period to provide owners insight into their dog's day.
"I've really appreciated the career preparedness. Even though I don't know what I want to do yet, this program gives me an idea of what I like to do and what I'm good at," Hope Wagner, senior, said. "It's awesome having the dogs here. Everyone loves them and wants to see them."
Credits:
Renée Burke