Students and staff at Taft Union High School are getting a little help as they heal from last month's shooting. Therapy dogs from Bakersfield have been stopping by to visit.
They're fluffy and friendly and don't ask questions, which is why Taft High staff members say it makes these dogs the perfect counselors.
The two big therapy dogs who visit Taft Union High School once a week are: Frank, a 6-year-old Newfoundland and Tiger Woods, a 4-year-old Champion Briard.
"I think it relaxes them," said Sherry Davis, Frank's Handler and a member of Therapy Dogs International. "It's a great distraction, plus the dogs don't ask questions. The dogs don't care about anything except they love the kids."
The dogs are members of Therapy Dogs International, the same organization that provided dogs in Newtown, Connecticut.
"Newtown to Ground Zero to Katrina," said Davis.
The four-legged friends greet kids between class, nuzzling students along the way, known as drive-by pets.
Their first stop Friday morning was the classroom in the science building where a gunman opened fire last month.
"This is what they love to do," said Davis.
Students who witnessed the shooting were all smiles as the canines came into class.
"They've just been wonderful to have on campus," said Marilyn Brown, Principal of Taft Union High School.
The dogs stay for three hours, visiting as many students as possible.
"I do feel better, a lot better," said Jennifer Chamale, a senior at Taft High. "It takes away from the stress."
Jennifer Dodson said the dogs make her feel safe. "You have a buddy," she said.
"We don't say anything," said Davis. "We just hold the leashes and the dogs do it all."
Tiger Woods even does tricks.
"Who doesn't love a wagging tail and a happy face?" said Brown. "It's a good way to put a smile on a kid's face."
The dogs have come at least once a week since the shooting and they've become part of Taft High's family.
"Our yearbook adviser even took their picture so they'll be part of our yearbook this year," said Brown. "The dogs have become part of our student body."
"The principal said we are honorary staff," said Davis. "Now, I think she meant the dogs."
It's a job they don't plan on giving up anytime soon.
"They told us we have to come forever, so we will come as long as they want us," said Davis.
One other wonderful part of this story, the handlers voluntarily bring the dogs in and aren't paid.
