Smart dogs train at PRHS to help college students by Kelley Handy (Photo credit to Bianca L'Italien)

You’ve noticed a few dogs running the halls here at PRHS, right? OK, maybe they're not running, but they're walking around with students and they're easy to spot. They are, quite literally, college bound.

These dogs are in training to become service dogs for college students who have physical impairments. I am sure you have seen or heard about me taking a few falls here and there. Picture someone like me in college with a  dog that is trained to help people walk, open doors, pick things up, and do “every day” activities that most of us take for granted. Of course, these dogs make for great companions.

These five puppies come to school every other day to learn the correct way to behave in a school setting. Students and their parents work 24/7 preparing these dogs. While most of you are sleeping on Saturday mornings at 8 a.m., student dog trainers and their dogs are at PRHS, working on and learning new skills.

Emily Buell and her family started the College Bound Canines program here in Maine when she moved from Arizona. The program there was going well until unforeseen and unavoidable situations developed. When Titan was left with no handler, Emily happily stepped up to the plate. Sadly, Titan could not be remain in the program due to bladder issues. But the Buells kept him at home, even though he was no longer a PRHS student! Now he is the ambassador of the program and demonstrates his skill whenever needed.

There are many different feelings surrounding the dogs being here at Poland. But for the most part, students seem to enjoy having them.

“It makes it feel like you’re more at home, and more comfortable with them here,” said Ms. Ross, who has helped with this program as well.

The major concern is allergies. “We want this program but there’s only so much we can do, said our principal, Ms. Medd. “I know it’s a huge commitment and these students should be commended for it.”

Although her dog training job is stressful, Emily Buell enjoys the rewards that this program gives. She enjoys helping people and dogs. Put these two together and it is a perfect fit for Emily.

"It's going to give (college students) more independence,'' Emily said. “ It's going to help them out all the way through the rest of their dog's life. It'll open doors for them in college. It'll make a difference in somebody's life in a really, really positive way."

College Bound Canines continue to move forward every day one step at a time. If you are interested in learning more about this program please visit www.collegeboundcanines.com and watch a video showing what these dogs will be able to do after there training!