Dog Days

The University’s first full-time therapy dog joined the office of Counseling and Psychological Services in September. Beowulf, a Native American Indian dog just over a year old, already has become a welcome sight for students and faculty as she explores her new home—wearing her vest that says she’s a therapy dog in training and her Emory ID.

Beowulf is generally in the company of Colleen Duffy, a staff psychologist, who is in charge of caring for the dog. The two hold appointments with students, attend meetings, and take regular walks, stopping often to greet and socialize.

The dog’s working day “depends on what my client load looks like,” says Duffy. “She may greet the clients, sit in her place next to my chair, sit at their feet, or they may pet her. That is something that can be incredibly comforting."