Help Bring Walter to our school as a Facility Dog.

At our school, we’ve seen firsthand the powerful impact that a facility dog can have on students.

Our current facility dog, Sullivan, has become a daily source of comfort, connection, and support—especially for students experiencing anxiety, stress, or personal challenges. For some, these moments are what help them get through the school day.

Sullivan is getting older, but we have an opportunity to continue and expand this support by welcoming another incredible dog into our program to train and, eventually, take over for Sullivan — Walter.

Meet Walter

Walter is a young Golden Retriever who has already spent the past year training to become a therapy dog as part of a DHS senior project. Through this work, he has been consistently exposed to students, school environments, and foundational training that make him uniquely prepared for this role.

Walter isn’t just a good candidate—he is already on the path to becoming a school facility dog.

‍ Experienced, Proven Leadership

Walter would be adopted by Ms. Cheryl Krohnert, who has years of experience raising and training facility dogs within our school community.

This would be the third facility dog that she has helped bring into a school setting, and her work has already made a meaningful impact on countless students over the years.

Her dedication goes far beyond the school day—these dogs are cared for, trained, and supported day and night to ensure they can safely and effectively serve students. Just as importantly, they are deeply loved and cared for at home, where they are part of a family—not just a program.

Why We’re Fundraising

While this program brings incredible value to students, it is largely supported through personal commitment and out-of-pocket costs.

Ms. Krohnert is a single caregiver, and while she is fully committed to giving Walter an exceptional life and purpose, the financial responsibility of adding another facility dog is significant, and we want to help.

Your support will help cover:

Adoption cost ($1,000-b$1,500)

️ Insurance for safety in a school setting (~$1,200/year)

Veterinary care and wellness visits

Monthly preventative care (flea/tick, heartworm)

Continued training and certification ‍

Our goal is to help ease the initial and ongoing financial burden so Walter can begin supporting students as soon as possible. As our current facility dog, Sullivan, continues to age, we are also thinking ahead about the future of our program. Bringing Walter in now would allow for a thoughtful transition, where he can train alongside Sullivan and gradually learn the routines, expectations, and role of a school facility dog.

This overlap ensures continuity for students and allows Walter to step into the role with confidence when the time comes.

Why This Matters

Facility dogs provide:

Service for students experiencing PTSD or needing neurodivergent support

A calming presence during stressful moments

Emotional support for students struggling with anxiety

Increased engagement and connection at school

A safe, non-judgmental companion

For many students, this support is not just helpful—it’s essential.

Our Goal

We are hoping to raise $2,500 to help bring Walter to our school and support his first year as a facility dog.

Every donation—no matter the size—helps make this possible.

Thank You

Thank you for supporting our students, our school community, and the work being done to create a more compassionate and supportive environment.

Walter has already started this journey. With your help, we can make sure he continues it—right here at our school.

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