Meet Gus, the WVU School of Nursing’s therapy-dog-in-training
BSN Program Director Joanne Watson eagerly greets Gus during his first visit to the WVU School of Nursing.
The newest member of the WVU School of Nursing family, Gus, is a gentle giant. Weighing in at 125 pounds (and counting), the 10-month-old Great Dane pup is well on his way to becoming a therapy dog through the Hearts of Gold Service Dog program.
Partnering with the School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences and Interdisciplinary Curriculum of West Virginia University, the Hearts of Gold program offers university courses in service dog training, is developing research activities and provides many other services to the community.
Gus’s human, Cathy Camden, a senior academic advisor with the WVU School of Nursing, has always been passionate about training and handling a therapy dog.
“I previously owned a therapy dog that I took to hospitals, nursing homes and other events,” Camden said. “The joy that came from those visits was evidence of how powerful and uplifting a ‘wet nose’ can be for others. I fell in love with this type of service and as long as I have worked here, I have wanted to provide a therapy dog for our school.”
Gus has already made a couple preliminary visits to students, faculty and staff on the School of Nursing floor, providing opportunities for pets, puppy cuddles and kisses (and a bit of drool along the way). He was eagerly welcomed into the family with an abundance of head scratches and treats.
Gus will have regular visiting hours in Camden’s office (which will be shared in the coming weeks), and he will be invited to certain classrooms and activities to help members of the School of Nursing take a moment to unwind and destress.
“Not all dogs have the ‘IT’ factor for this type of work, but shortly after getting Gus as a puppy, I could see he had the making of a great therapy dog!” Camden said. “It thrills me to be able to provide this service to our students and faculty because I know firsthand the difference a dog can make in someone’s mood and life.”
