Therapy Dog Mourned By Wayne Middle School

WAYNE, NJ — Students and staff at a Wayne middle school are mourning their furry friend, whose purpose was to make their day brighter.

Schuyler-Colfax Middle School’s therapy dog, a German Shepherd named Thor, has passed away, according to a social media post by the school.

“Thor was more than a therapy dog, he was a gentle friend, a comforting presence, and a source of joy to so many within Schuyler-Colfax Middle School, Wayne, and beyond,” the post read. “With his calm spirit and loving heart, Thor had a special way of making difficult days a little easier and happy moments even brighter.”

Thor, when he wasn’t cheering up staff and students in the classroom, was cared for by Special Education Science Teacher Lisa Klink. Klink, who trained Thor, has been advocating for getting more therapy dogs in New Jersey classrooms.

Before he passed, students and staff were able to celebrate Thor’s eighth birthday. Additionally, just nine weeks ago, he completed his 250th visit to the middle school, a milestone in his therapy dog career.

“Through countless visits, wagging tails, and quiet moments of comfort, Thor touched the lives of students, staff, and community members in ways that will never be forgotten,” the tribute reads. “Though our hearts are heavy with his loss, the love and kindness he brought into this world will continue to live on in all who were lucky enough to know him. Thor will be greatly missed, forever loved, and always remembered.”

More from Patch: New Bill Could Put More Therapy Dogs In NJ Classrooms