Aurora, NY: School's therapy dog reduces behavior problems

Nov 27, 2017, Aurora, NY, SRY—TV: Aurora principal's therapy dog helping reduce student's stress and behavior problems http://www.localsyr.com/news/local-news/aurora-principals-therapy-dog-helping-reduce-students-stress-and-behavior-problems/865928945 Principal Chris Clapper has been bringing his dog Archer to work for the past three years. Over that time, the school has seen a reduction in student behavior referrals, which Clapper believes is due, in part, to Archer's presence. "He's especially good when a child needs that emotional connection," Clapper said. "He's there for them. He's there for them every single day. And they know that." Archer is usually a constant presence in the hallways before classes start, but he's also used for one-on-one time if a student is on good behavior. Southern Cayuga School District also a therapy dog in the adjoining high school for students. "It could be the one connection that gets [students] through the day or it helps them look forward to coming to school," Clapper said. "So if we can help provide that emotional connection: why wouldn't we?"