NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) recently held a heartfelt retirement celebration for Flynn, an Australian Labradoodle who has been a cornerstone of the institution’s well-known therapy dog program for the past decade.
The 12-year-old dog, who has worked alongside students and faculty as part of the “Paws for a Break” initiative, was recognized for his unwavering service in providing emotional support and comfort to the campus community. Flynn’s handler, student counsellor Linda Shaw, expressed her pride in Flynn’s integral role over the years.
“Flynn has been more than just a therapy dog,” Shaw explained. “He was involved in research projects, classroom visits, and countless student events. Many students have told me they chose to study at NAIT because of him, and even more have stayed in their programs after finding the support they needed through Flynn’s interactions.”
As Flynn enters retirement, Shaw noted that while the dog continues to enjoy his duties, his age has made it the right time for him to step back. However, Shaw is optimistic that another therapy dog will continue the legacy, with the NAIT Student Association (NAITSA) already offering similar services to students through their own therapy dog program.
In honor of Flynn’s years of service, NAIT has established Flynn’s Fund, a dedicated mental health initiative aimed at providing therapy, counseling, and emotional support for students in need.
Flynn’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in NAIT’s student support services, but his impact will surely resonate for years to come.
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