Casey Watson, a Clinical Psychology graduate student at Marshall University, has made a significant impact by training her dog, Dr. Howard J. “Howie” Watson, as a certified therapy dog. Their partnership has brought comfort, support, and healing to many individuals within the university community and beyond.
Meet Dr. Howard J. “Howie” Watson
Dr. Howie is not your typical campus visitor. He’s a four-legged, furry therapist with a heart of gold. His gentle demeanor and intuitive nature make him an invaluable asset to the department. As a certified therapy dog, Dr. Howie has undergone specialized training to provide emotional support and comfort to people in need. His name, complete with the honorific “Dr.,” reflects the respect and admiration he receives from everyone who meets him.
The Role of Therapy Dogs
Therapy dogs play a crucial role in promoting mental health and well-being. Studies have shown that interactions with therapy dogs can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. These dogs provide a sense of calm and companionship, especially during challenging times. Their presence can lower blood pressure, improve mood, and enhance overall emotional well-being.
MU PAWs (Marshall University’s Campus Therapy Dog Program) is a heartwarming initiative that brings therapy dogs like Dr. Howie to various campus locations.
The program aims to:
- Decrease anxiety, depression, and trauma among students and staff.
- Provide extra support to those who may be struggling with mental health concerns.
- Foster a positive and comforting environment on campus.
Dr. Howie’s Contributions
Since joining MU PAWs in December 2023, Dr. Howie has become one of the program’s regular therapy dogs. He provides services in:
- Dorms: Offering emotional support to students during stressful times.
- Wellness Center: Assisting individuals seeking mental health resources.
His handler, Casey Watson, a third-year Psy.D. student, has been instrumental in Dr. Howie’s training and integration into the program.
Dr. Howie doesn’t limit his compassion to campus boundaries. He extends his paw of comfort to the wider community:
- Marshall University Housing and Residence Life Events: Dr. Howie attends events, spreading joy and easing tensions.
- Center for Healthier Aging Initiatives in Appalachia: He participates in projects aimed at supporting seniors.
- Local Nursing Homes: Dr. Howie spends quality time with residents, brightening their days.
Casey Watson and Dr. Howard J. “Howie” Watson exemplify the power of the human-animal bond. Their dedication to improving mental health through the MU PAWs program is commendable. Dr. Howie’s quiet presence and innate ability to sense when someone needs comfort make him a true hero on campus and in the community.