Maker’s Joy Brings Paws-itivity to Campus

PVCC has a furry new addition: Maker’s Joy, an adorable golden retriever who comes to campus to help students pet stress away. The 2 ½-year-old pup is a therapy dog who loves doing exactly what her name says: making joy. 

Maker has had her therapy dog certifications for just a year, which is extremely early for a dog, as most therapy dogs are two before they even start their journey to becoming a certified smile maker. To be a therapy dog, Maker went through training, a series of observations, and tough classes. The process of her certification took about three months. 

Maker has a brother, Tayo, who is 17 months old and in the process of going through his own therapy dog training. Maker’s other brother, Cooper, is 11 years old and is a retired therapy dog. 

Her favorite activities include fishing, retrieving tennis balls, and being around kids. Maker visits Pre-K through fifth grade every week. Maker’s owner, Cricket, explained why she decided to certify Maker’s Joy as a therapy dog. “I taught in the school system for many, many years. After I retired, one of the things I wanted to do was to be able to take my dogs back in the schools, and work with students. She, as a puppy, showed a natural tendency to be able to go into schools and have a calming influence on children. So, it was an easy match.”

When asked about the influence therapy dogs have on students, Cricket said, “You’ll walk down the hallway and you’ll notice students look up and smile. Smiling is a natural way to reduce stress and anxiety. The stroking and petting of the dog, lowers your heart rate and makes you feel good.”

Maker’s Joy will be at PVCC on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 11:30 a.m. in the North Mall Meeting Room. Come and pet your stress away!