With quarter two ending, students have been inundated with quizzes and tests to finish up the quarter. These last two weeks have been stressful for students, so BC High had therapy dog team volunteers come to the school to help combat the stress. Volunteers who have been graciously coming to BC High during stressful times like midterms include Melissa Burrill and Rona, an 11-year-old chocolate Labrador. Mrs. Burrill currently has a son attending BC High, a junior in the class of 2021, and they have both been volunteering at BC High for the past 4 years. Rona and Mrs. Burrill have been trained through a non-profit corporation called Dog B.O.N.E.S. (Dogs Building Opportunities for Nurturing and Emotional Support). Rona was certified as a therapy dog there and can provide therapeutic contact with the elderly, the disabled, or the young.

When humans interact with a pet dog, both experience increased levels of oxytocin, a “love hormone”, and decreased levels of cortisol, a hormone that causes stress in humans. With efforts such as bringing therapy dogs to BC High, the administration is helping students confidently make it through rigorous weeks at school. So the next time you need a little peace of mind before a major exam, find one of the therapy dogs to put you at ease!