O’Neal Elementary is the latest school within the R-I district to join in the movement of adding a professional therapy dog to its staff, with help from community sponsorships.

Mossy Oak Properties/Mozark Realty teamed up with Southern Bank to donate $4,000 so handlers Gabe and Bonnie Thompson, O’Neal counselor and interventionist, can bring home a Labrador retriever upon attending a weeklong training over spring break in Kansas through Cares, Inc.

“The benefits are exponentially increased here because we have kids with intensive needs,” Gabe said. O’Neal houses the district’s special education program for elementary students including SWIN, TRUST and FUN classrooms.

Gabe and wife Bonnie introduced Bocce (pronounced like the ball game), who turns 2 in June, to the campus community last month. The application process began two and a half years ago, Gabe noted.

“We were approached about what they were planning a while back, and the day has finally come,” commented Billy Hirtz, Southern Bank market retail manager. “We’re just proud to help sponsor.”

Owner Lucas Edington of the Mozark Companies, who serves on the O’Neal Bright Futures Site Council alongside Hirtz, pointed out that—as a dog person—the decision for him was a “no-brainer.” Edington stated: “It’s an excellent opportunity for the school kids and adults. We’re ecstatic about it.”

Handlers are paired with certified assistance dogs through Canine Assistance Rehabilitation Education & Services, a prison reform program, and must pass a public access test before graduating from the class. The Thompsons had to test Bocce’s temperament at a mall.

Poplar Bluff Schools has maintained a tradition of utilizing therapy dogs for over a decade. In addition to O’Neal, the district houses service animals at Eugene Field, Lake Road and Junior High. Another approved canine at Early Childhood is in the process of receiving additional training and Oak Grove’s Great Dane is currently inactive due to age.

“They make ideal partnerships with counselors and intervention teachers because they build relationships and engage with many more students on campus,” said Patty Robertson, R-I assistant superintendent of curriculum.

Buildings are limited to a single therapy dog, unless a specific need is established based on student headcount, Robertson explained. In addition to seeking sponsorships, handlers are responsible for providing the liability insurance, veterinary care and pet food. O’Neal hosted a ‘puppy shower’ to get Bocce situated in the building.

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Cutline: A representation of the student body poses with educators, business partners and the school’s new therapy dog Bocce (center), as well as a visiting Lab named Mingo.