Pups Uplifting People is an ECSD animal-assisted intervention therapy dog program. The first program of its nature in the Lowcountry. If you have any questions you'd like to ask or are wanting to learn more about the P.U.P. Program, reach out. We are happy to help!!
Meet the Pups and Handlers
Click below to learn more:
- Cyber, Golden Retriever
- Junie, Golden Retriever
- Bowie, Dachshund
- Zoey, Blue Heeler
- Piper, "Sprollie"
- Noodle, Irishdoodle
- Shiloh, Chocolate Lab (therapy dog in training)
- Teddy, Petite Goldendoodle (therapy dog in training)
Handlers: Kate Keith (Cyber), Stacey Reid (Junie), Traci Whitaker (Bowie), Beth Vance (Zoey), Paige Kutchey (Shiloh), and Amber Bragg (Teddy)
Owning a Therapy Dog
Who can have a therapy dog?
ECSD School Counselors, School Social Workers, and School Psychologists were offered the opportunity to become handlers for the therapy dog program as it is a natural extension of their professions.
Program Costs
None. No taxpayer dollars are used to pay for this program.
Handlers pay for all expenses including insurance, food, veterinary care, and professional grooming.
Ideas for Partnership
The program offers activities designed to support students' development, including partnerships with therapists, support for students in crisis, and assistance for children with special needs.
Training
ECSD Pup teams are professionally trained through SD Gunner Fund. Dogs must pass 5 formal assessments including AKC Canine Good Citizen and Pet Partners Therapy Dog.
Allergies & Fears
The Pups only visit where invited. In cases of allergies, we can keep our distance or meet in a different location to ensure everyone's comfort.