Therapy Doggo Brings Love and Comfort to Students Following Horrific School Shooting
A therapy dog named Kermit became a small source of comfort after a devastating school shooting in Florida left families and students reeling. Based in Austin, Texas, Kermit usually helps people cope with grief, but this time his calming presence was needed far from home.
His caregiver, Melissa Unfred, happened to be in Florida when the tragedy unfolded, and she brought Kermit with her to help students who were struggling in the aftermath. The dog had already been a lifeline for Unfred, who adopted him to help her through the stress of working as a mortician.
What happened next showed just how much comfort one therapy dog can bring when everything feels unbearable.
Unfred originally adopted Kermit to be her personal therapy dog because her job as a mortician was very stressful. Kermit helped her cope phenomenally, so Melissa knew he would be able to help at least one person. She understood they had to try to do something, anything.
And if you need more hope, watch the disabled dog cry tears of joy after getting love.
Wearing his "Therapy Dog, please pet me" vest, Kermit accompanied Unfred to a community center in Parkland on a Friday, ready to help.
Unfred spoke with The Dodo and said, "It's surreal. There's a reverent and solemn feeling in the field. Students have come, along with community members. It's very somber and reflective."
After Kermit’s comfort in Florida, see how Dr. Martin soothed Taka after a kennel fire.
Share this article:
