Orion trains to become a Golden Flyer therapy dog
Orion, the black labrador retriever on campus, is now officially a Golden Flyer wearing the purple and gold! Her "therapy dog in training" vest has her own NazCard ID badge. Due to recurrent ear infections, Orion is no longer in the Guiding Eyes for the Blind program, but Professor Laura Poleshuck, clinical associate professor in Nazareth's occupational therapy program, was invited to adopt her. Orion is now training on campus as a therapy dog to help others.
What is she doing on campus?
Orion will continue to participate on campus in a variety of ways: research projects on animal-assisted interventions, attending occupational therapy classes, and providing a vocational opportunity for a LifePrep student. After completing therapy dog training, she may engage with some community members who come to campus for educational and therapeutic opportunities.
Can I approach Orion or is she busy with training?
Interacting with students appropriately is part of her training! Please feel free to pet Orion when you see her on campus or visit with her at Dr. P.'s office (YWRI room 129). You can give her a treat from the bowl on the windowsill outside Dr P.'s office; just ask Orion to "sit," "down," or "shake."
Is it safe to pet her in this era of COVID-19?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "There is no evidence that viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19, can spread to people from the skin, fur, or hair of pets." However, as a general precaution, please wash hands or use hand sanitizer before and after you pet her.
Research continues
In the fall of 2021, Poleshuck and her new group of graduate students will continue to conduct research to measure the impact of Orion's weekly interactions with first year students on campus.
For More Information
Julie Long | Chief PR Officer, | (585) 781-8186 | jlong2@naz.edu
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