A minute after the bell signaled for class to begin, students from two Peer to Peer Connections classes were already sitting at tables in the classroom waiting to see Bentley, the six-year-old therapy dog. Once they saw the teacher use a harness to bring the golden retriever into the room, many students said, “Awww, he’s so cute.” 

Bentley’s role at P-CEP is to bring support and a boost of positive energy to students who may benefit from a therapy dog’s ability to help reduce stress or anxiety. 

October 13 was Bentley’s first day working on campus, and two Peer to Peer Connection classes, foods and art, were invited to meet him by Nellie Malby, Salem art department teacher.

Peer to Peer Connections is a program in which P-CEP students use leadership skills as they help other classmates who may need additional support in academic or social skills. The goal is to have students develop relationships and work with each other as a team to build a stronger community. 

Bentley is part of the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Maltby, who owns Bentley, raised him from a young age in the state of Ohio. The dog trained to learn basic commands. Since earning his certificate, Bentley can work in schools, libraries and in nursing homes.

“I took him to the library first so kids could read to him,” said Maltby. “He did really, really well with kids, and just seeing those interactions and bonds, I figured he could do really well here too.”

Maltby explained that training is essential, but understanding the differences between the type of support animals is just as important. “A therapy dog is about socialization with a lot of people, like out in public spaces. A service dog is just a one-on-one.”

According to the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, trained animals can play a role in supporting students’ emotional and social well-being in a school setting. The animals create a calming environment that can help students focus, feel safe and open up in social interactions.

“He’s adorable. Bentley brings a calming presence and overall brings a sense of safety,” said Arlo Gabler, a Plymouth junior.  

Myah Salah had a similar reaction. “Being by him while I talk to you feels like it helps boost my thought process,” said the Canton senior, adding that although this is her first time meeting Bentley, she has previously met Canton’s therapy dog, Dani.

“I feel like all the [therapy dogs] I’ve ever had interactions with are very calm, very warming, very exciting,” said Salah. 

Bentley’s visit made a strong impression on the participating students. “It’s just fun. It’s different. You know, when you think of school, you don’t think of a dog. So, it’s something different. It makes my day a little better,” said Gabler. 

Students who want to visit Bentley can find him Wednesdays in Salem room 1200 with Maltby during lunch or homeroom.