Stress is a simple word, but the definition can be endless. For students, the causes can seem like a cycle. No sleep, too many tests, not enough time. Schools across the nation are trying new ways to help relieve stress for students, and one way is with intervention from man’s best friend.
One school that made headlines for its use of service dogs is Yale Law School. At the University library students are able to sign up for 30 minute slots to spend with a service dog. It is not complex at all; the students get time to play with a dog, which is proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and balance overall emotional well-being.
When HHS Assistant Principal Laurie Wade saw an article about the dog at Yale, it triggered the idea of bringing a dog to Hershey. At first the idea seemed impractical; would a dog have the same effect at a high school? When discussed with fellow administrators, the idea of a service dog at HHS seemed like it could be a solution to the most complex problems. 
“Dogs have the capability to do the most amazing things,” said Wade. The use of a therapy dog at Hershey would go beyond the relief of stress. “The dog would foster a sense of togetherness,” said Wade. 
Wade has an image of students from all different ages and social groups bonding over the dog. Students would be able to have fun spending time with the dog, along with fellow students that they might not have socialized with otherwise. 
“How the dog would bring the student body together reminds me of the COCOA principles,” said Wade. It will simply begin a cycle. The school community will strengthen, which will highlight opportunities, citizenship, ownership and academics. 
After planning and approval, a service dog has now become a part of HHS. Hershey’s service dog was trained by Assistance Dogs International over a course of five days. The program that provides service dogs is the NEADS organization. The service dog has no direct cost to the school, but HHS can expect to see fundraisers to benefit the NEADS organization.
The dog’s caretaker will be Wade, who plans to be responsible for all veterinarian costs and care. The dog, a black Labrador, will live with Wade. HHS students can expect to see the dog during mornings, lunches, and after school. The dog will gradually become more a part of everyday life at HHS and will be making more appearances. 
Those who would prefer no interaction with the dog will not have many issues.  The dog will be isolated to specific areas, and Wade will always be with the dog. Those who have allergies may have less of an issue because the dog will have special grooming treatments done to reduce allergen triggers. 
Though interaction will not be mandatory, the service dog is going to be available to all of HHS, and Wade hopes that the student body takes advantage of the opportunities the service dog presents.  HHS should keep an eye open for the service dog, who is expected be at HHS regularly starting March 12.