Governor and First Lady Justice welcome new therapy dog at James Monroe High School
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LINDSIDE, WV (WVNS) — Governor Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice helped welcome a new therapy dog, a golden retriever named Maverick, at James Monroe High School.
Maverick has been an absolute angel upon his arrival to James Monroe. This community has had a really rough couple of weeks, and to know that Maverick has been here to support these students through it really shines light on what the Friends With Paws therapy dog program is about. I just know Maverick will be a beacon of hope for these students, helping them with their social and emotional well-being.
First Lady Cathy Justice
Cathy and I cannot say enough good things about the Friends With Paws program because these dogs put the biggest smiles on everyone’s faces. Not only that, but these therapy dogs truly show unconditional love towards the students and teachers. I’m so proud of Cathy and her team for all the great work they are doing, because they are really making a difference across the state.
Governor Justice
Maverick is one of six new therapy dogs added at Communities in Schools locations across the state by Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice.
The therapy dogs are a part of the Friends With Paws initiative, and a total of 31 therapy dogs can be found in West Virginia with the addition of the six therapy dogs.
Lewisburg Elementary School welcomes new therapy dog
These therapy dogs are making such a meaningful difference. It’s incredible what benefits they bring, not just for the students but for the whole faculty. Our Friends With Paws dogs increase attendance, bring comfort and support to everyone in the school, and even help boost academic scores. I look forward to welcoming each one and seeing the amazing work that they do for our students.
First Lady Cathy Justice
The Friends With Paws program was started in March 2022 and puts certified therapy dogs in different Communities in Schools throughout the Mountain State to help students who are affected by situations such as substance misuse or poverty and need the comfort of a support animal.
Seeing the Friends With Paws initiative grow brings me a ton of joy because I know firsthand the difference these amazing dogs make for students and educators all across our state. These therapy dogs have truly become a cherished part of our communities, spreading love and happiness throughout the halls. I’m absolutely certain these new additions will make a positive impact at their new homes.
Governor Justice
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The six additional therapy dogs include:
Marion County: Opera – female Labrador Retriever – West Fairmont Middle School
Monroe County: Maverick – male Golden Retriever – James Monroe High School
Wetzel County: Molly – female Labrador Retriever – New Martinsville School
Wood County: Barney – male Labrador Retriever – Parkersburg High School
Calhoun County: Cocoa – female Labrador Retriever – Calhoun Middle/High School
Grant County: Joey – male Labradoodle – Petersburg Elementary School
Events to welcome the therapy dogs will be held in schools across West Virginia throughout the year.
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