LAKE GEORGE, N.Y. – Sometimes a welcome at school comes on four paws, especially when it’s the Ellie therapy dog.

At Lake George Elementary School in upstate New York, a therapy dog named Ellie visits with Kim Sicard, a retired teacher who taught kindergarten in the district for 35 years. An October 21 district feature describes a partnership that brings students comfort and gives teachers another way to connect with their classes.

This is an established effort, not a newly launched program. Ellie has visited the Lake George school community since 2021. The district says her visits are now often booked a month ahead.

More than a friendly visitor

According to the district, Ellie helps some children settle into unfamiliar school surroundings. Teachers also include her in classroom activities. Those are the school’s observations, not claims that a dog can replace counseling or other student support.

Students learn another important lesson before meeting her: ask before approaching or petting a dog. Sicard also explains the different roles of therapy dogs and service animals.

A useful distinction for families

The U.S. Department of Justice’s service-animal guidance explains that a service dog is trained to perform a task connected to a person’s disability. An animal that provides comfort simply through its presence does not, for that reason alone, qualify as a service animal under the Americans with Disabilities Act. State or local rules can differ.

Understanding that distinction helps children respect both the animals and the people who rely on them. Asking first is a small habit with a lasting lesson: kindness includes respecting boundaries.

For readers looking for a bright spot, this one is simple. Retirement did not end one teacher’s connection to her school. It gave that connection a new companion.