In a Sterling training facility, Kathy Benner is introducing WUSA9 to one of her four-legged children.
"This is Forest," she said.
Forest, who didn't leave her side, was an energetic, but well-behaved Tree Walker Coonhound with white coloring. On this visit, Forest was putting on a show, running through tunnels, and jumping through hoops.
"Forest is my bud," laughed Benner.
But this dog has a bigger purpose. He's in training to become a therapy dog. Benner runs a facility called "Heeling House," where they have 22 therapy dogs, and two service dogs, to comfort the community.
Until recently, these dogs were active in Loudoun County Public Schools, where she said they visited for four hours per week, on average. In particular, they would have a big impact in Special Education classes. However, late last year, she was told by a teacher that therapy dogs were no longer allowed in Loudoun schools.
"We were definitely disappointed," she said. "That we wouldn't be able to go in. Most of the reason we were upset was that we were upset for the children we were able to see and help."
WUSA9 reached out to LCPS for an explanation, and were told that this has actually been the policy for years, but has not been enforced well. While service dogs are allowed, therapy dogs are not, according to their policies. Last October, the school sent out a reminder to teachers.
"This regulation is based on the Code of Virginia," said the school system's spokesperson. "And the American With Disabilities Act."
The distinction between a service dog and a therapy dog is an important one. A service dog is assigned to one person with a disability, and is rigorously trained. Meanwhile, a therapy dog is privately owned, and is part of a group like Heeling House, to offer general comfort to the community. These dogs also go through training, but less than service animals.
Benner said it was disappointing because these dogs can really make a difference.
"A therapy dog is able to help children," she said. "In ways that we never even thought were possible."
As for whether this policy is up for discussion, LCPS told WUSA that the regulation "is currently under review by LCPS administration."
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