Furry stress reducer
Tito, a certified therapy dog, helps students as counseling staff member
Sometimes, just being present can make a difference. Witnessing Tito in action, it is easy to see why.
A 6-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix, Tito joined Wheaton’s Counseling Center in August to supplement the services offered by the college’s counseling professionals.
The newest member of the staff has quickly become a pretty popular individual on campus—hosting weekly open events, frequently strolling around campus and collecting followers on Instagram. Visitors regularly greet him with a smile, gently pet his head, and sometimes, are rewarded with a “kiss.”
Assistant Director of Counseling Carly Ladd, who lives with Tito, brings him to campus on Tuesdays and Fridays. Upon request, he also attends special events, depending on his availability.
“Animal assisted therapy is growing rapidly on college campuses,” Ladd explained, as significant health benefits result from interactions with animals. “Students are really enjoying him.”
Originally from Kentucky, Tito was adopted by Ladd from an animal shelter in New Bedford, Mass., at the age of one. Possessing a calm, mellow demeanor and loving all people, he is certified as a therapy dog and a Canine Good Citizen—a 10-skill test created by the American Kennel Club that teaches good manners to dogs and responsible dog ownership to their owners.
Tuesday with Tito sessions are held weekly, either on the Dimple (weather permitting) or in the Balfour-Hood commuter lounge. It’s an hour of open time for students to relax and hang out with their new furry friend. Attendance ranges from 25 to 40 individuals, with some stopping by for a brief interaction while some groups stay for the hour.
In addition to the consistent smiles and laughs, the sessions have yielded some unanticipated results.
“The same groups of students seem to come almost every week,” said Ladd, noting that a couple different groups have gotten to know each other through this shared experience. “We’ve also had quite a few students who have acknowledged that they’ve never been around dogs or have had negative experiences with dogs in the past.” For them, gradually warming up to Tito has helped them, Ladd shared.
According to the American Pet Products Association, 66 percent of American households own a pet. “Students don’t always realize how much they miss their own pets,” said Ladd, mentioning that some have become emotional after sitting down with Tito.
His presence has also enhanced some therapy sessions, according to Ladd. “If someone is emotional or hyperventilating and having a panic attack, Tito has helped students calm down and regulate their emotions, which has been wonderful to witness.”
Tito has also reframed the type of support that students usually associate with a counseling center. “It’s not just a place to go to talk about sad or negative things that have happened in your life,” said Ladd. “We provide coping skills and host positive programming as well, helping students spend time outside and connect with their peers.”
If you see Tito and Carly walking around campus, please say hello. He loves the attention. And don’t miss out on what’s next for Tito—follow him on Instagram @TherapyDogTito.