Malia Riggs
Elmore Autauga News
Popcorn the facility dog was the first ever placed in the state of Alabama in 2015, where she paved the way for placement of other dogs throughout the state. Popcorn’s last day of school was Tuesday Jan. 30th, with a pawty to follow for the beloved four-legged friend in Wetumpka Elementary School.
The adored friend to many through the years has served as a listening ear, the best reading buddy, a pillow during library time and even participated in costume parties.
“To this day we keep about 40-45 active facility dogs throughout the state with counselors and administrators within the school system, and Popcorn was responsible for all of that. They do have to pass all the same training as a service dog and go through an accredited program. But the big difference is they are not working with one person with a disability. They’ll serve many. Among the many of those served can be emotional needs where students are dealing with divorce or death or just different crises,” Service Dogs Alabama Director Ashely Taylor said. She also stated that the dogs help with test anxiety, fears and sensitivity issues.
Service Dogs Alabama is backed by Assistance Dogs International and since it is a state program, the Alabama Department of Education funds the program within Alabama Schools. The dogs work with a professional handler and go home with them in the evening after the school day is done.
As Popcorn lazily laid down for pets and love from many of her students, Brandi Reiske, Popcorn’s mom looked down, “Here lately that’s her duty,” she said. Reiske is a paraprofessional for Wetumpka Elementary School and Popcorn’s caregiver. “She senses stress and anxiety in the classroom. So, she can go in the classroom and work off leash and work with the kids that need a little more love.”
“There are so many stories that I could share that would probably make you cry. She was not trained to do diabetics and we had a kid that had been in the classroom for a few years and was newly diagnosed. Popcorn alerted to his low. She is not trained for that, but because she’s so familiar with her kids she knew there was something wrong. She senses our stress and anxiety,” Reiske said.
Popcorn has brought countless smiles, laughs and support throughout the years with her service within Elmore County. Students from her past and her current students came to celebrate her well-deserved retirement. Also attending were some of her other animal friends including a bearded dragon.
“We are so thrilled for every adventure and opportunity that Popcorn has provided for our students, staff, faculty, parents and everybody that has come in touch with Popcorn. Popcorn has loved us all. It’s just a privilege to host this to say happy retirement to you, Popcorn,” Principal of Wetumpka Elementary School Gigi Hankins said.
