Meet our Therapy Dog, Buddy!

 

Union Academy Welcomes Therapy Dog Buddy to Campus

Union Academy is proud to introduce the newest (and furriest) member of its team: Buddy, a certified therapy dog dedicated to supporting the well-being of all students, K–12.

Buddy is a mixed-breed rescue with a calm, friendly, and intuitive temperament that makes him perfectly suited for therapy work. Unlike service dogs or emotional support animals, therapy dogs are specially trained to provide comfort, affection, and support to individuals in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, and even disaster response areas. Buddy’s role at Union Academy is to be a warm and steady presence, available to any student who may need a moment of connection or calm—unless families choose to opt out of his services.

Already, Buddy has made a big impression. Students light up when they see him in the halls, and staff members have noted the positive impact his presence has had on mood and engagement, particularly among students experiencing stress, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm.

Lower School Principal Lizzie Morris serves as Buddy’s primary handler and has worked closely with his trainers to ensure his seamless integration into school life.

Buddy’s Training Journey

Buddy’s path to becoming a therapy dog began with a rigorous selection process that focused on temperament, emotional control, and responsiveness. From the start, he demonstrated the ability to remain calm in unfamiliar settings and connect with people of all ages in a gentle and respectful manner.

His training—led by K9 Responder Academy—included desensitization to common distractions, advanced obedience commands, and exposure to diverse environments. From crowded hallways to quiet classrooms, Buddy has learned to stay composed and attentive, even during high-energy or unpredictable situations.

Buddy’s training was overseen by Rick Dunton, founder of K9 Responder Academy and a nationally respected trainer who launched the Charlotte Fire Department’s therapy dog program. Rick and his first therapy dog partner, Cat, achieved the elite “Archangel Team” certification from Caring Angels and accumulated thousands of hours in demanding public service environments. Rick brings that same standard of excellence to every dog he trains—including Buddy.

Through K9 Responder Academy, Rick and his team have placed therapy dogs in top organizations throughout the East Coast, including the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and Durham Police. Union Academy is honored to join those ranks.

A Community Effort

Supporting Buddy’s well-being and readiness for his role has truly been a team effort. UA is especially grateful to Forgotten Now Family Rescue for introducing us to Buddy and recognizing his potential to bring comfort and care to others. Brown Creek Animal Hospital provides top-notch veterinary care, ensuring Buddy stays healthy and happy. His regular grooming is handled by Missy’s Mutt Makeovers, who help keep him looking and feeling his best. UA is thankful for the continued support of these local partners who help Buddy thrive as a vital part of our school community.

A New Chapter in Student Support

At Union Academy, we believe student well-being is foundational to success. The addition of Buddy supports this mission by offering emotional support, comfort, and connection in a nonjudgmental and joyful form. Whether a student is facing a tough day or just needs a soft head to pet, Buddy is here to help.

As Buddy settles into his new role, we look forward to the many ways he’ll continue to make Union Academy a more supportive and compassionate place to learn and grow.

We have a lot of fun activities planned with Buddy. Look for ways you can participate in News from the Nest and social media. 

Welcome to the family, Buddy!