Did you know we have Ki-yay, the therapy dog, in the library? She is there to help, give you lots of attention, and nibbles. She is here for everybody who welcomes her because she likes to give lots of love and hang out with students and staff.
Ki-Yay has an owner named Kelly Bradley who trained Ki-Yay herself to become a therapy dog. Kelly wanted a fresh start so she adopted Ki-Yay when she was only weeks old. She had a cast from being bitten by a labrador but when she got adopted she had three more surgeries so Kelly started training her. When Kelly began bringing Ki-Yay to school the staff and students fell in love with her that’s when Kelly signed her up for the K9 Good Citizen test.
When I asked Kelly about her dog, she said, “In our old school, the kids loved her so much that they threw Ki-Yay her 1st birthday party for helping them and making their day.” Kelly’s taking her dog to school has made her talk to more students every day and has made people’s days because of Ki-Yay.
Even staff members have noticed what a good chance it is to have the therapy dog here. Dean Bill Phalen said, “She is very gentle and sweet and if you are in a bad mood you can go and visit or they can bring her to you and she could instantly put you in a better mood.” Mr. Phalen and Ki-Yay have a good relationship and do well together, over time they have created a great bond.
Some staff members, like teacher Dawn Thomason, said, “ Whenever Kelly would bring Ki-Yay, all the students would get excited and love on her. I think Kelly has a good intuition on where to be the most helpful with Ki-Yay. I think they are great additions to the Doherty family.” Ms Thomason adores Ki-Yay and Kelly, and I think they make a great team.
Teacher Hannah Snow said, “ I think what makes Ki-Yay special is her welcoming, calming presence. She just makes everyone softer, everybody can relax, and she makes people smile. I think Kelly and Ki-Yay have brought joy to a lot of people here, and they just make Doherty a happy place.”
In the front office, Andy Storm said,“Ki-Yay is a very smart dog, she is friendly, very outgoing, and very affectionate to everyone. I think Ms. Bradley works well as her handler. I would recommend anyone who is having stress or a hard time to go and see her and to give her treats because she loves those.”
