inspiration

To Love Like Judge

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It’s taken me time to write this—maybe because putting it into words means admitting he’s really gone. But grief has a strange way of nudging us forward—through moments of kindness, memory, and unexpected connection.

You see, the other day I received a friendly question from a local gas station attendant. His question opened the door to this reflection, reminding me that Judge’s presence didn’t just change my life—it left a mark on others, too.

I stopped for gas, and the attendant—always kind and jovial—leaned ever so slightly in through the window with a warm smile.

“Where’s your big dog friend?” he asked, looking toward the back seat as if Judge might be curled up, ready to pop his head up—as was the norm.

I felt the weight of the words before I even spoke. But I said them. The attendant’s face shifted—genuine heartbreak in his expression. He wanted to know what happened to my friend, so I told him.

I thanked him for remembering Judge, for asking, for seeing us. He gave me a fist pump, “I’ll be thinking of you.”

The gas station attendant’s words and supportive fist-pump immediately brought me back to a warm summer evening walk a few seasons ago. An older gentleman on his evening stroll passed us and paused, his eyes soft with admiration. “Magnificent,” he said, nodding. “Simply magnificent.”

At the time, I thought he was talking about Judge, and he was, because Judge was magnificent—“magical,” to quote my son. But today, I wonder if the neighborly observation was referring to us—our bond, our rhythm, the strength in how we moved together, how we communicated.

There was something sacred in my connection with Judge, something that didn’t need to be explained—only admired for the authentic love it displayed. It was beautiful.

Intersectionality of Time and Space

The comment at the gas station isn’t so different from the one that summer day. Both came from strangers who saw something beautiful in our everyday. Both moments remind me that Judge’s legacy isn’t just the love he gave me—it’s the way he made people stop and feel something.

People gravitated toward him. Kids, neighbors, delivery drivers, the mailman who kept treats in his pocket just for Judge—they all felt it.

I’ve come to realize that people didn’t just see a beautiful dog when Judge was around—they felt something in his presence. There was a gentleness about him, a knowing. He carried himself with quiet confidence, never asking for attention but always drawing it.

It wasn’t just that he was loyal or smart or handsome or protective, though he was all of those things. It was the way he made people feel seen, safe, and loved—without needing words. He had that rare gift.

Love Like Judge

You know, whenever I posted a picture of Judge to Instagram, it was usually accompanied by the #mustlovejudge hashtag—a playful twist on the early 2000s rom-com Must Love Dogs. It became my unspoken rule, the standard for who I let into my life, into our life: “Must Love Judge.” If you didn’t get Judge or love him, you probably didn’t get me—or love me—either (not to mention our entire pack). Now, after losing him, I see that phrase a little differently.

It’s not enough to have loved Judge. The real challenge, the real calling, is to love like Judge—offering the same quiet comfort walking with people through joy and sorrow, listening without needing to speak, being loyal, steady, and present.

I once heard that grief is just love that has nowhere to go. I’m not sure I’ll ever be over the loss of Judge—and honestly, I don’t think I want to be. But my everlasting love for Judge does have somewhere to go.

The way forward is to carry what he taught me into every space I enter and meet the world with the same unwavering heart and the same quiet grace. This is Judgie’s Yoda-like life lesson I know he wants me to carry forward, reminding me to hold steadfast to my ability to love unconditionally, to always remember that I am deserving of that same unconditional love from the universe, and to encourage others to do the same.

So I choose love—the kind that asks for nothing but gives everything. The kind that lingers, even after goodbye.

I choose to love like Judge.

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has been so incredibly supportive and kind throughout Judge’s battle—and through everything since. Your calls, texts, DMs, beautiful flowers, cards, handmade drawings, thoughtful gifts, hugs, and check-ins have lifted us all in ways I can’t fully put into words.

Every gesture, no matter how big or small, has been a testament to the love you had for Judge—and for us.

My wish for you is simple but sincere:

May everyone in this world be lucky enough to experience a love like Judge in their lifetime.

And may we all honor that gift by paying it forward—simply by loving like Judge.

Thank you for standing with my pack. Thank you for loving us through our heartbreaking loss.

We love you,

Jess, Jacob, Daisy, Bravo, & Bud

✌️🫶🐾

The Honorable Judge

September 10, 2017 – March 25, 2025

The Privilege of a Second Chance

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Reunited with Judge • February 16th, 2025

I was given two options: immediate surgery or I needed to say goodbye. The surgery wasn’t guaranteed, the risks were high, and there was no promise of a miracle. But when I looked into Judge’s eyes, I knew it wasn’t time for us to part.

You see, his eyes told me everything—full of life, determination, and an unbreakable spirit that’s always defined him. And in those eyes, I saw a Rolodex of memories and moments in which Judge never gave up on me. Not once. Through every high and low, he’s been there, my constant, my protector, my best friend. How could I possibly give up on him now?

The doctors were honest. They told me the risks, the during and post-operative possibilities. But they also told me Judge was strong with an excellent heart—minus a bum spleen, Judge was a relatively healthy German Shepherd. It was all I needed to hear.

But making that choice was a privilege.

Emergency surgery isn’t just a matter of love and loyalty—it’s a matter of resources. It requires financial stability, access to specialized care, and the ability to take time away from life’s other responsibilities to be fully present for recovery. Not everyone has that choice. For many, the cost of life-saving surgery for a pet is simply out of reach. For others, the lack of nearby medical facilities or the inability to take time off work becomes the deciding factor.

When I stood at that crossroads, I was painfully aware of this privilege. I had a support system that rallied around me, offering love, prayers, and help with life’s other demands. I had access to my own veterinarian, the Veterinary Emergency Group, and Cornell’s exceptional veterinary team which carried out the life saving surgery. Without any one of those things, the outcome could have been heartbreakingly different.

This awareness weighed heavily on me because I know so many people face the same gut-wrenching decision without the resources to choose hope. I was able to fight for Judge because I had the privilege to do so. But others have to make the hardest choice of all—not because they don’t love their pets just as fiercely, but because life’s realities leave them no other option.

Judge isn’t just a dog. He’s my family, my guardian, my heart. He’s watched over my son, protected our home, and shown me a love so pure it’s changed me for the better. He is the reason why I started my entire dissertation over and focused on the adolescent-animal bond in secondary settings. In Judge, I saw the power of connection, the depth of loyalty, and the healing power that only a dog’s love can bring. His impact on my life was profound enough to shape my career, my research, and my purpose.

Today, the doctors are hopeful. Even with three liters of blood in his abdomen, the surgery was clean, a successful splenectomy, and Judge is home healing. He’s eating like the picky king of the castle that he is, back to reigning over his Mötley crew, his spirit as unbreakable as ever. Watching Judge return to himself, sneaking back to his spot on the couch, seeing that familiar spark in his eyes cataloging another memory together—it’s nothing short of a miracle.

Judge’s road to recovery won’t be easy, but he’s here, alive, because he never gave up and because I had the privilege to fight for him—just as he’s always fought for me. But for those who aren’t given that choice, my heart aches.

I will never take for granted the opportunity I had to fight for Judge and will advocate for solutions to ensure all pet parents can make balanced choices for the well-being of their furry family member—without having to choose between love and necessity. It’s my hope that one day, every pet parent will have the freedom to choose what’s best for their pet, without limitations.

I want to sincerely thank the veterinary teams at White Plains Animal Hospital, Veterinary Emergency Group of White Plains, and Cornell University Veterinary Specialists of Stamford. Your expertise, compassion, and dedication have meant everything to our family and Judge. You’ve given us more than just a second chance—you’ve given us hope. I am forever grateful for all you’ve done to give us back our Judgie Boy.

Building Trust, One Paw at a Time: Using an Extracurricular Club to Introduce Therapy Dogs in Schools

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Many educators and school leaders recognize the benefits of therapy dogs in academic settings but hesitate to implement a full-scale program due to knowledge gaps, logistical challenges, financial constraints, or policy concerns. A Therapy Dog Club offers a structured, low-risk way to introduce animal-assisted therapies, easing leadership apprehensions. In fact, I strongly recommend beginning the therapy dog implementation process in this way to build trust in the program’s effectiveness while addressing concerns in a controlled environment.

So let’s dive in together as I define the concept of a Therapy Dog Club, outline its benefits, and provide a brief guide to getting started.

What is a Therapy Dog Club?

As I define it, a Therapy Dog Club is a student-led, faculty-advised group that brings trained therapy dogs into a school environment on a scheduled basis. The club provides a structured, low-risk way for students and staff to interact with therapy dogs, typically for emotional support, stress relief, and social engagement. It allows students to experience the benefits of animal-assisted interventions without the immediate need for implementing a full-time therapy dog program.

Participation is voluntary, making it an accessible option for a wide range of students. In my view, a Therapy Dog Club operates on a smaller, flexible scale, bringing therapy dogs into the school on specific days rather than having a resident dog on campus daily. Additionally, a Therapy Dog Club may meet after school or during designated extracurricular periods, which can be particularly appealing to school and district leaders.

Benefits of a Therapy Dog Club

Eases Administrative Concerns

Even with strong research supporting the benefits of therapy dogs, one of the biggest barriers to implementation is navigating perceptions, assumptions, and stereotypes. A club helps schools challenge misconceptions and test the waters before committing to a full-time therapy dog program. It also offers:

• Student Autonomy – Participation is voluntary, so students who are uncomfortable around dogs or have allergies can simply opt out. This eliminates concerns about mandatory exposure in classrooms or common areas.

• Waivers for Participants – Schools can require students (and guardians, if necessary) to sign waivers acknowledging participation and understanding any risks. This adds a layer of protection for the school and provides transparency for families.

• Gradual Implementation – Schools can observe how students and staff interact with therapy dogs before considering a larger-scale program. This allows time to refine policies, address concerns, and build community support.

Provides Emotional and Social Benefits for Students

A Therapy Dog Club offers many of the same emotional and mental health benefits as a full program. Interacting with therapy dogs has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost social interactions—all of which can be particularly helpful for students struggling with anxiety, academic pressure, or social isolation (Maricevic, 2022).

Fosters Student Leadership and Engagement

A Therapy Dog Club empowers students to take on leadership roles by organizing events, coordinating with therapy dog teams, and advocating for expanding the club into a full program. Giving students ownership fosters responsibility, teamwork, and community engagement.

Strengthens Community Partnerships

Starting a club opens the door to collaborations with local therapy dog organizations, shelters, or animal-assisted therapy programs. Schools can invite certified therapy dogs for visits, partner with community groups for educational sessions, or create service-learning opportunities where students volunteer with therapy animals.

Gathers Data to Support a Future Program

If a school is hesitant about implementing a therapy dog program, a club can serve as a pilot initiative to collect data on the impact of animal-assisted therapies. Surveys, testimonials, and anecdotal evidence from students, teachers, parents, and other key stakeholders can provide compelling reasons to expand the club into a permanent program.

How to Start a Therapy Dog Club

Identify a Faculty Advisor – A teacher, counselor, or staff member passionate about student well-being and animal therapy can oversee the club.

Partner with Local Therapy Dog Organizations – Certified therapy dog teams can schedule regular visits to meet with students.

Plan Activities – Meetings can include guest speakers, stress-relief sessions, volunteer opportunities, and advocacy efforts for therapy dog programs.

Involve Students – Let students lead initiatives, create outreach materials, and develop events.

Implement Waivers – Have students (and their guardians, if needed) sign participation waivers to ensure transparency and address liability concerns.

Final Thoughts

A Therapy Dog Club is a low-risk, high-reward way for schools to explore the benefits of therapy dogs before committing to a full program. It fosters a positive school culture, supports student mental health, and builds a foundation for a larger initiative in the future.

If your school is on the fence about a therapy dog program, starting with an extracurricular offering might be the perfect first step. By starting small and scaling thoughtfully, schools can introduce therapy dogs in a way that minimizes risks, maximizes benefits, and paves the way for a sustainable, well-integrated program.

A Case of the Mondays

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After a relaxing weekend with our dogs, Monday morning hits hard. The easygoing days replaced by the usual work routine, and it’s clear the pack feels the shift too. Judge, Daisy, Bud, and Bravo all know when it’s time for me to head out the door. Their eyes reflect a shared disappointment. Yup, somebody’s got a case of the Mondays and it’s not just me.

But there’s a silver lining embedded within the dreaded Monday. After hours apart, walking through the door to the pack’s excitement makes life feel lighter. No matter how long the day was, that afternoon greeting, tails wagging as if no time has passed, immediately erases the stress and brings a smile to my face.

Me & Bravo Monday, September 16th

Need proof? Take this photo from Monday evening. Here, Bravo is affectionately letting me know how happy he is to be together again. He may not use words, but Bravo’s expression of love says it all. Sharing a moment like this after a long day is a reminder that despite the weekday grind, our bond remains strong. Reuniting isn’t just about making up for lost time—it’s about resetting the connection. Just like in any relationship, whether with family or friends, reconnecting after time apart strengthens the bond.

Bravo, Bud, Daisy, and Judge; their love reminds me that, even after a busy day, the simple act of coming home to a house filled with love is always the best part of every day—and the perfect remedy for any case of the Mondays.

Knicks’ Thibodeau Reflects on Season’s End with Resounding Message for Us All

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In a poignant moment during the post-Game 7 conference, Tom Thibodeau, the coach of the valiant 2024 New York Knicks, encapsulated the spirit of a season filled with grit, determination, and unyielding belief. “If you give everything you have, you can live with no regret…this team exceeded everybody’s expectations, except probably our own,” Thibodeau remarked, drawing a definitive line under a remarkable journey.

Thibodeau’s Knicks, a team often underestimated by critics, showcased a season that defied the odds and silenced naysayers. As the coach stood before the press, his words were not just a reflection on the game but a broader commentary on the ethos that propelled the team forward.

Effort and Regret: A Life Lesson

Thibodeau’s assertion, “If you give everything you have, you can live with no regret,” resonates far beyond the confines of the basketball court. It’s a universal principle, applicable to all walks of life. The message is clear: total commitment and effort ensure a life free from the burden of “what ifs.” For the Knicks, this season was a testament to that philosophy. Every player, every game, every practice reflected an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

Throughout the season, the Knicks faced skepticism and doubt. Analysts, fans, and opponents frequently set low expectations, anticipating a performance that would blend into the mediocrity of past seasons. However, the team’s achievements this year shattered those low ceilings. They played with a tenacity and skill that not only impressed the league but also carved a new identity for themselves. Thibodeau’s reflection that the team “exceeded everybody’s expectations, except probably our own” speaks volumes about their mindset. Internally, the Knicks harbored a quiet confidence, a self-belief that propelled them to strive for greatness. This inner conviction was their driving force, creating a standard of excellence that was inherently higher than what others anticipated.

Embracing a Knicks’ Mindset in the High School Classroom

Of course, the educator in me needs to bring Thibodeau’s words into the the high school classroom. You see, Thibodeau’s reflection on the importance of giving everything you have, to live without regret, and exceeding expectations resonates far beyond the basketball court. This mindset is equally powerful and transformative in the high school classroom. Here’s how:

1. Total Commitment to Effort

Just as the Knicks players gave their all on the court, students can apply this principle to their studies. Whether it’s a challenging math problem, a complex science project, or a demanding essay, putting in maximum effort ensures that students do their best work. This commitment helps students develop resilience and perseverance, knowing that they have done everything possible to succeed.

2. Living Without Regret

By putting forth their best effort in every assignment and exam, students can avoid the regret of wondering what might have been if they had tried harder. This mindset encourages them to take ownership of their education, leading to greater satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.

3. Exceeding Expectations

The Knicks surpassed what others expected of them by believing in their potential and striving for excellence. Similarly, students can set high personal goals and work towards surpassing them. This approach fosters a growth mindset, where students see challenges as opportunities to improve rather than obstacles to fear.

4. Building Self-Belief

The Knicks’ internal confidence drove their success. In the classroom, students who believe in their abilities are more likely to take risks, participate actively, and embrace difficult tasks. Teachers can nurture this self-belief by providing encouragement, recognizing effort, and celebrating progress.

5. Creating a Supportive Environment

A key factor in the Knicks’ success was their team spirit and mutual support. In a high school setting, fostering a collaborative and supportive classroom environment can help students thrive. Group projects, peer tutoring, and open discussions encourage students to support each other’s learning, enhancing overall performance.

6. Resilience in the Face of Failure

The Knicks’ journey wasn’t without setbacks, yet their unwavering effort allowed them to bounce back stronger. Similarly, students can learn to view failures not as endpoints but as valuable learning experiences. This resilience builds character and prepares them for future challenges.

7. Setting Personal Benchmarks

Students can take inspiration from the Knicks by setting personal benchmarks for success. These benchmarks might be improving grades, mastering a particular subject, or developing better study habits. Achieving these goals can boost confidence and motivate further progress.

Applying the Knicks’ mindset to the high school classroom cultivates a culture of effort, self-belief, and continuous improvement. By striving to give their all and exceed their own expectations, students can achieve academic success and personal growth. This approach not only prepares them for higher education and careers but also instills life-long values of perseverance, resilience, and self-confidence.

A Season to Remember

As the Knicks wrap up this season, their journey serves as a powerful narrative of overcoming doubt and surpassing limitations. The coach’s words will likely linger in the minds of players and fans alike, a reminder of what can be achieved with relentless effort and self-belief. In reflecting on this season, the Knicks have not just played basketball; they’ve crafted a story of resilience and ambition. They’ve demonstrated that with the right attitude and determination, exceeding expectations becomes not just a possibility, but a reality.

Looking ahead, the foundation laid this season paves the way for even greater aspirations. The team’s performance has set a new benchmark, one that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors. As the city of New York reflects on this memorable season, it’s clear that the Knicks have redefined their narrative. They’ve proven that with heart and hustle, they can not only meet the expectations of their most ardent supporters but also inspire a broader audience with their commitment to excellence.

Coach Thibodeau and the 2024 New York Knicks, you are an inspiration to us all.

Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring Tina Turner

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In honor of Black History Month, each week I will delve into the heartwarming bond between Black voices and their cherished canine companions.

For my final post, I pay tribute to the remarkable life of the iconic Tina Turner, a music legend who reshaped the rock ‘n’ roll landscape and is forever immortalized as the #Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Tina’s electrifying performances, soulful voice, and resilient spirit made her a music icon and one of my favorite artists to karaoke!

I personally found myself even more inspired by Tina after learning about this 1971 image depicting Tina, her son Ronnie, and their majestic Great Dane, Onyx. You see, this image encapsulates the dynamic energy of the rock legend and the serene strength of a canine companion, solidifying the position held by many, other than myself, that dogs are not just pets; they are steadfast companions, offering a unique and irreplaceable bond, one that transcends barriers imposed by others and the society in which they live.

Additionally, the image suggests Onyx exemplified the quintessential #GreatDane attributes, loyalty and a gentle demeanor, not because of his regal posture, but more so by the body language of Onyx’s humans—Tina’s loving embrace of Onyx, the position of her arm and her beaming smile, not to mention her son’s joyous expression. In this moment, the trio appear to share simultaneous happiness.

I’m left to wonder about the myriad of ways Onyx may have offered Tina unwavering reinforcements through the highs and lows of the early days of her illustrious career, including her personal hardships and quest for true love. In the whirlwind of a demanding career, one may consider that the presence of a loyal canine friend, like Onyx, served as a grounding force, for dogs, with their intuitive understanding and unconditional love, fulfill an area of need within their person.

Tina and Onyx, another beautiful example of the human-animal bond to further substantiate my personal belief that standing alongside every great woman is a stoic canine companion (or four). At the end of the day, dogs really are “Simply the Best.”

Please consider a visit to my Instagram to view posts honoring the incomparable Black voices of Billie Holiday, Oprah, Pauli Murray, and their respective love of dogs.

Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring Pauli Murray

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👩🏼‍💻: @empathicpaws
📸: Robert D. Farber archives

In honor of Black History Month, each week, I will delve into the heartwarming bond between Black voices and their cherished canine companions. This week, I honor the trailblazing Pauli Murray – a civil rights activist, legal scholar, and champion for equality.

Along with Pauli’s immense contributions to life as we know it today, Pauli was a steadfast dog lover and it is Pauli’s enduring love for dogs that is beautifully captured in this moment. Pictured here you will find an image of Pauli and cherished companion, “Doc” – officially known as “Black and White We Rise Together,” on the lawn of Benedict College (Farber Archives, 1967).

Throughout Pauli’s remarkable life, dogs transcended the role of mere pets; they were steadfast allies, bearing witness to Pauli’s tireless advocacy for justice, equality, and ideals.

Accompanying their groundbreaking contributions, Pauli’s connection with their canine companions is a testament to the enduring strength found in companionship and the human-animal bond. “Doc” stands as one of the many loyal dogs integral to Pauli’s story, quite possibly offering solace, understanding, and unconditional love.

I am inspired by the thought of Pauli Murray making these profound contributions, accomplishing monumental feats all the while having a loyal canine companion equally steadfast by their side—a symbol of companionship, unwavering support, and a unique kind of partnership, but the most true form of love.

Imagine the comfort of having a faithful friend, witnessing tireless advocacy, celebrating triumphs, and offering solace during challenges. This bond may very well have evoked feelings of determination, resilience, and reaffirmed Pauli’s commitment to making a difference.

Pauli and “Doc,” a testament to the extraordinary impact that the companionship of a beloved dog can have on one’s life, the role they play in the narrative of accomplishments, and the inspiration to continue on my own advocacy journey, with gratitude and love for the pack that remains by my side.

Please consider a visit to my Instagram to view posts honoring the incomparable Black voices of Billie Holiday and Oprah, and their respective love of dogs.

Celebrating Humble Honors: A Journey Among Champions in Advocacy

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Dog Save the People’s most recent Instagram post

As 2023 comes to an end, I am reminded of an extraordinary privilege afforded to me this year—being featured alongside incredible human-animal bond advocates in the 2023 podcast series, Dog Save the People. In a world filled with remarkable voices dedicated to uplifting humanity, there are those who stand out, inspiring change and progress. To find myself nestled amidst luminaries—a Nobel Prize winner and CNN’s #2023HeroOfTheYear, well, to say it was a surreal experience would be an understatement.

The honor was not just a personal triumph. Dog Save the People’s decision to devote an entire episode to my research and to unpack the why behind the need for therapy dogs in high school settings, gave credence to my research, the human-animal bond (specifically the one between teenagers and therapy dogs), and so much more. But here’s the best part, I’m not the only person to hold such convictions.

Dog Save the People’s dedication to nurturing meaningful discussions, with a focus on the profound bond between humans and animals, is truly commendable. Each episode’s authentic portrayal and reverence for diverse perspectives reflects an unwavering commitment to fostering impactful dialogue for the greater good.

And then there’s my voice.

The inclusion of my voice alongside this esteemed 2023 group of guests serves as a reminder of the collective strength found in passionate advocacy. It’s a testament to the transformative potential of shared conversations and the ripple effect they create.

To those who stood by EmpathicPaws, supported my ventures, and rallied for the advocacy work addressing the human-animal bond across public and private sectors, and continue to do so, I extend my deepest gratitude.

And as I glance at the time, the minutes tick closer to 2024. It’s exciting to affirm my empathic journey is one that is far from over. Here’s to carrying forth the torch of empathy and advocacy into the new year. Together, let our collective voices resonate louder, ushering in positive change—one paw at a time.

It’s Cool to Be Kind

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For those of you new to @empathicpaws, I am Dr. Jessica Maricevic, humane-ed reform and animal-assisted therapies advocate, and I am so very glad you’re here.

My most recent original graphic design is inspired by the words of comedian and humane advocate, Ricky Gervais. Let’s further the conversation around the interconnectedness of the human-animal relationship and social-emotional competency development and use Mr. Gervais’s words as a springboard.

©️ J. Maricevic, 2023

The human-animal bond serves as a positive influence upon one’s social-emotional competency development, the sustainability of SECs and subsequent evolution of these traits throughout a person’s lifetime. And with that in mind, more consideration is needed within learning organizations on ways to infuse the human-animal relationship to further the radius of influence upon the social capital within the organization.

Allow Mr. Gervais’s words along with my original visual creation to serve as a conversation starter around the human-animal bond and the need to increase opportunities for such bonding in the high school setting.

Dog Save the People: My Conversation with John Bartlett

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Me & Judge: Dog Save the People.

In the fall of 2022, I received an email from the amazing production team behind John Bartlett’s podcast, Dog Save the People. John and his team stumbled upon my website, were intrigued by the novel nature of my qualitative study, impressed by my steadfast research-based mission to dispel misconceptions around therapy dogs in high schools, desire to educate stakeholders on why therapy dogs are needed, and how to implement a therapy dog program with efficacy.

Dog Save the People have welcomed some unbelievable guests. Writers, professors, even Nobel Prize recipients, and now, to be added to this list, Dr. Jessica Maricevic— I’m humbled.

So here I am, and yeah, I know, I was always “here,” but I am forever grateful for Dog Save the People’s equally steadfast position to illuminate the voices of others (which in this episode, happens to be my voice).

Thank you John Bartlett, for providing a platform for my research, honoring my commitment to secondary education, the student-therapy dog relationship, and helping me educate others on how a vital relationship like the one between a high school student and a therapy dog needs to be an equitable norm for all high school students across America.

I welcome you to listen to the episode in its entirety (click here) and to explore some additional thoughts below.

Why therapy dogs? Why now?

This pseudo post-COVID America has unearthed a tremendous amount of pain, a pain some have tried desperately to suppress, or flat out ignore. Secondary stakeholders who acknowledge the macro reality of the invasive impact of the current geo-political climate are better equipped to consider the micro implications in the high school setting. And to those stakeholders who believe they must personally observe the influence of the macro reality in the micro setting, see with their own eyes presentable evidence of societal stressors, complex anxieties and invisible traumas to adequately address the social and emotional needs of students… well, read a little bit more of this post, because today’s high school students are carrying more than a load of books and a laptop with little to no storage.

So say you.

I’ll hold off on the details of my own research and findings for the time being simply to prove you don’t need to read academic journals and peer reviewed articles to establish an understanding of this crisis. Here are some statistics presented from three national cable news outlets within the last 12 months:

An image I captured from my television during an early morning CNN live broadcast (February 14, 2023).
Read Elizabeth Pritchett’s article in its entirety: Teenage brains aged faster…
April 26, 2022 segment from MSNBC’s Morning Joe; guest Harvard University’s John Della Volpe.

Understand, the above sources are a mere snapshot of reporting from three national cable news outlets, and yes I am well aware each source brings with it their own distinct bias. Yet, even with their respective leans, the conscious decision to report on the social and emotional concerns of teens suggests a unified effort to convey a stark reality to their audiences.

It is extremely important to note the three news outlets referenced here in this post have observed an increase in viewership during the years of 2016 – 20220 (Pew Research Center, 2023). The research suggests such an increase in viewership is most likely connected to presidential elections, societal conflicts, and the coronavirus pandemic (Pew Research Center, 2023).

Hypothetically, if the Pew Research Center reports either (1) a decrease the numbers of viewers, (2) a plateau of viewership (it remains at its current rate), or (3) a continued upward viewership trend for the period of 2020-2023, millions of Americans would still receive the message loud and clear, teens are hurting, they need something more, and it’s up to the adults in their lives to make it happen.

Cable News Fact Sheet
Back in my day…

As students go from class to class, carry the weight of the world and the plight of America’s transgressions on their shoulders, they are accompanied by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, feeling down, and depressed. And then, some students hold their breath when a school wide announcement interrupts a class period without warning, flinch upon hearing an unsuspecting sound, and ask what if questions the day after cable news outlets, those very outlets referenced above, consume airwaves with incessant reporting of yet another unthinkable event.

Even with all of this chaos, students aren’t desensitized by their reality. They remain hyper vigilant, in-tune to their emotional responses, and astute to the emotional affect of others in their orbit. But that doesn’t mean they are okay.

The last thing adolescents need is another adult telling them how to manage life as a teenager, or why they need grit and perseverance to get through “these unprecedented times.” Unfortunately, the reality for today’s teens requires more than “Back in my day” talks and harping on trendy jargon (I wish it were that easy). Couple that with the contradictory expectations to prioritize emotional wellbeing and academic performance— students need something more than whatever is provided at the secondary level to meet or exceed their social and emotional needs.

I can hear stakeholders’ “yeah, but…” phrases, ready to launch their counter claims:

Yeah, but their grades are fine.

Yeah, but they’re participating in sports.

Yeah, but they’re not alone in the cafeteria.

Yeah, but they’re taking selfies.

Yeah, but they’re friends with that student; they’re not a bully.

Yeah, but they seem happy.

It’s time to stop assuming. It’s time to stop dismissing the teenage experience. It’s time to start listening, and infuse differentiated support systems that are more real-world centric.

21st century students need more of the tangible, more ways to feel safe, secure, valued and loved, with opportunities to reciprocate those feelings towards another, without judgement (Maricevic, 2022).

Establish a therapy dog program (start today).

Now more than ever, therapy dogs are a viable resource to meet those needs for all high school students— no matter the zip code, regional location or poverty designation of a given school or district.

Yeah, but…

I know, I know! You’re asking yourself, “Yeah, but what about the challenges?” Mitigating challenges, is a totally different blog all together, but believe you me, I’ve got it all covered. I will tell you this, any perceived challenges from fears to allergies can be addressed to ensure the efficacy of board policy and the sustainability of an in-house therapy dog program in your high school (Maricevic, 2022).

This is my original gif which includes slides displaying my research and findings. These slides appeared in my Fall 2022 presentation to members of Association of Professional Humane Educators (and that presentation was an awesome experience).

I’ll also tell you that any stakeholder who flat out says no to an in-house therapy dog program to meet the social and emotional needs of students, is saying no for the sake of saying no (Maricevic, 2022). Don’t forget it.

The student-therapy dog relationship in the high school setting is an indelible, transformative fixture, a relationship with the infinite ability to transcend the four year high school experience. My findings suggest the omnipresence of a therapy dog in the high school setting does more than influence the social-emotional competency development in adolescents (Maricevic, 2022). In fact, the organic development of the student-therapy dog relationship may very well be the antidote to [feel free to fill in the blank to reflect the needs of your students and high school] (Maricevic, 2022).

My study reveals much more about the therapy dog phenomenon, its profound impact on secondary students and the high school setting. I’m proud to say my study also exposes inequities that must be addressed to ensure all students are afforded the opportunity to benefit from the student-therapy dog relationship during their high school years.

The above is a mere snippet of some of the points touched upon during my conversation with John Bartlett, host and founder of Dog Save the People. I encourage you to listen to the podcast in its entirety through any of the following platforms:

And let’s connect! Share your thoughts! Questions! I look forward to it.