Tiffin, Ohio – The Tiffin City Schools therapy dog, Kennedy, has received a “difficult but hopeful cancer diagnosis,” the district said on Wednesday.
The golden retriever has a tumor that its surgeon believes can be removed to add more years of work to its life.
“Cancer is relatively common in golden retrievers as they age. We are absolutely committed to maintaining Kennedy’s quality of life as we move forward. The VCA Dog and Cat Hospital of Tiffin took great care of Kennedy. Operations and all future healthcare costs will continue to be covered through donations and fundraising campaigns. We are currently planning for Kennedy to go back to school in August, ”the Tiffin City Schools wrote in a Facebook post announcing the news.
“Kennedy has been supporting the Tiffin City Schools for 8 years. He shares unconditional love and support with students and staff every day. Kennedy knows when to put his head on his lap, give a little kiss, or lie down next to a student in need. He calmed down many emotional students, comforted sad students, and celebrated student successes. Kennedy is a common classroom aid, offering a tail or nose to measure during a math class, or curling up next to a student to be read to him. Kennedy has helped hundreds of students at TCS and several other local schools deal with the tragic loss of a classmate, parent, sibling, or friend. He also attends funerals and visits to support students, families, and staff.
“Thank you to the students, families, and the community for your past, current, and ongoing support of the school therapy dog program! Kennedy makes a difference in student lives every day, ”the district wrote.
