First Lady Justice Introduces Eli to Nutter Fort Primary School, Opera to West Fairmont Middle School
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on April 19, 2024
The therapy dogs were announced during assemblies celebrating their arrival.
Eli, a male Golden Retriever, was placed at Nutter Fort Primary School.
The Friends With Paws program places certified therapy dogs in several schools across the state, providing companionship and comfort for students needing a boost. As of yesterday, 25 Friends With Paws therapy dogs have been placed across the state.
"Nutter Fort Primary is happy to welcome our therapy dog, Eli," says Principal of Nutter Fort Primary School, Jennifer Oliverio. "He will provide joy, comfort, and smiles to our students, staff, and community. We are grateful to add this amazing resource to our school. Thank you, Communities in Schools and Friends with Paws."
Diversified Energy, an independent energy company that focuses on sustainable energy production, transportation, and well retirement in West Virginia, extended its support by helping sponsor the placement of Eli to Nutter Fort Primary. Recognizing the profound impact of therapy animals on students' emotional well-being and academic success, Diversified Energy's generous contribution of $5,000 underscores their commitment to fostering a nurturing and supportive learning environment. Friends With Paws is immensely grateful for Diversified Energy's commitment to enhancing the educational experience at Nutter Fort Primary School.
"Harrison County is important to Diversified, and we're proud to do our small part in giving back to the community that many of our employees call home. First Lady Justice has done great work supporting education and youth across West Virginia, and we're honored to join her in welcoming Eli to Nutter Fort Primary, where he'll help support a positive learning environment," said Diversified Energy CEO and Harrison County Native Rusty Hutson Jr.
Following the assemblies, students, and staff had the chance to greet Eli and Opera.
WVU Medicine has also extended its support of the Friends With Paws program by helping sponsor Opera at West Fairmont Middle. Their generous contribution of $5,000 shows their recognition of the program's importance in our West Virginia CIS Schools.
"Therapy dogs provide so much comfort and support, and I believe they can make a real difference in students' lives," said Aaron Yanuzo, WVU Medicine Fairmont Medical Center's Chief Operations Officer. "Studies have shown that interacting with therapy dogs can reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness and improve academic performance. I hope this donation will help create a more positive and welcoming learning environment for all West Fairmont Middle School students."
A 2019 study published by the National Institute of Health found that a dog’s presence in the classroom promotes a positive mood and provides significant anti-stress effects on the body.
In addition, research shows that the simple act of petting animals releases an automatic relaxation response. Therapy animals’ lower anxiety and help people relax, provide comfort, reduce loneliness, and increase mental stimulation. They are also shown to lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health, reduce the number of medications some people need, help control breathing in those with anxiety, and diminish overall physical pain, among other profound benefits.