Watermark Books and Cafe

Little has been written for children or educators about the use of professional therapy dogs in a school setting. Marsha Todd wrote this book about her therapy dog, Cagney, who worked with her in an elementary school for ten years as her assistant counselor serving a population of underprivileged children. To honor her years of service, she wrote this book with an audience of elementary students and educators in mind with the hope that it would inform them about the benefits of having children interact with therapy dogs. In June of this year, Cagney received an award for "Therapy Dog of the Year" by the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association. This award was earned primarily as a result of the moving letters of recommendation fifth grade students at our school wrote nominating her for the award. She has been an important part of the culture in the building. Her example of respect, caring, perseverance, and integrity have encouraged and motivated children to achieve academic success. Cagney’s story outlines the training that was required for her to become a therapy dog, the services she provided for children at our school, and what her life looks like outside of school.