Meet Tiger, The New Therapy Pup At Princeton Public Schools

PRINCETON, NJ — Princeton Public Schools welcomed its newest employee during the Board of education meeting on Tuesday evening.

The new staff member is a fluffy, 12-week-old therapy pup named Tiger. Currently in training, Tiger will be working in all four elementary schools on a rotating basis, the district said.

PPS Supervisor of Elementary Education, Sarah Moore worked with a Goldendoodle breeder to select a new therapy dog. "The excitement around him from staff and students is something to be felt in the building," Moore said.

"I would like to thank TriState Bernedoodles in West Berlin, NJ, for their generous donation."

Until he is fully trained, the Goldendoodle will visit only on Fridays at the Valley Road Administrative Offices, district officials said.

When he is not in training or visiting Valley Road, Tiger will reside with Moore.

The school district recently asked elementary students to vote on a name for the puppy. The overwhelming choice was Tiger.

Tiger will be in training for the remainder of this school year. He will join Moore at the elementary schools in spring, as an official therapy dog, rotating through the schools on a weekly basis.

Since Tiger's arrival at the school district, even the shyest student has come up to Moore to enquire about the dog, she said.

"I have had the opportunity to work with therapy dogs in other districts and the outcome, particularly with difficult-to-reach students, has been wonderful," Moore said. "It's another method to reach students who need support and I have seen first-hand what a huge difference it can make."

Tiger also attended his first administrative meeting this week and took an instant liking to Superintendent Carol Kelley’s pink shoes. "He knew exactly who the boss was, he slept at Carol's feet at one of our meetings," said Kimberly Tew, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction.

Describing Tiger as a "total smush and lovebug," Tew said the Goldendoodle has the "right demeanor" and is a perfect fit to work with the district's elementary school students.

Board President Dafna Kendal said Tiger will be paid in “20 Snausages a month.”

Here are more photos of Tiger to brighten your day (Courtesy of Elizabeth Collier and Sarah Moore):

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com