Each week at ClearWater Academy, a furry, four-legged visitor arrives to share a good book and sweet hugs. Certified Therapy Dog Libby made her 100th visit this past May as a treasured member of ClearWater’s program for students with learning differences. Owner Becky Hall related that Libby’s enthusiasm for time with the students has never waned with tail-wagging happiness only increasing with anticipation of visits. Libby has indeed wagged and cuddled her way into the hearts of the students with her soothing, attentive ways. Selected readers share a favorite book as Libby listens, with other students at times just needing that wonderful feeling of holding her in their arms and the increased self-regulation it brings. Libby has become adept at sensing what each student could best benefit from as far as proximity and touch. She sometimes places just a paw on the leg of a reader and other times will cuddle closely. Becky relates, “I have been amazed at how Libby perceives the specific needs of each student and adjusts her pressure of touch and her level of interaction accordingly. She will gently paw at the book to inspire a child to keep reading and it works! It is magical to watch!”
It was Becky’s daughter Caroline, now a teacher at ClearWater, who began the Hall’s family interest in serving others by owning a therapy dog. When Caroline was at UGA, she became involved in training service dogs but felt so sad when she had to part with them. Becky had been a part of the joy experienced with taking the puppies to various places and had witnessed the smiles brought to others by the dogs in training. Becky then decided the family would get a therapy dog - one they could keep - and continue the mission of lifting others’ spirits. Through much research and a bit of serendipity, Becky discovered that a litter in Jacksonville had been fathered by an outstanding therapy dog named Rogue. She was told that the puppies had been claimed, but then got the life-changing call that one female was available! Becky says, “Libby turned out to be everything and more of what I hoped for!” With the assistance of dog trainer Robin Sockness, Libby soon demonstrated exemplary behavior in all settings. Becky loved the experience so much, she now assists Robin! She shared that, “Other than taking Libby to ClearWater, the classes are my favorite thing to do!”
Libby became a certified therapy dog and certified reading dog after passing numerous tests performed by representatives of national organizations. Becky has found that she herself has benefited so much from having Libby. “ Libby helps me not be shy. She is an icebreaker for me!”
Both the staff and students of ClearWater adore Libby. Principal Heidi Johnson says, “Libby and Mrs. Becky are the highlight of our week at CWA. They bring joy not only to the students but to the staff as well!” During a previous zoom meeting, one student was thrilled when she saw Libby perk up her ears at the sound of the student’s voice. That same student shared, “Libby brings me comfort and love. I feel good when reading to her because it makes me a better reader, and Mrs. Becky helps me with words. When I walk in, Libby gets excited, and I pet her, and then she sits on her special blanket. She looks at me, and when I show her pictures, she puts her nose on them. What I like best is that Libby is so soft and cuddly.”
It seems we could all use a little ”Libby” in our lives.