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Houseparents And Pets In Homes program
Homes are always happier when one of the members of the family walks on four legs, right? We sure think so!
St. Joseph’s is proud to have the Houseparents and Pets In (HAPI) Homes program on campus. The program launched in 2017 with three dogs. We are happy to say the program gets a little “HAPI-er” every year, and keeps expanding over time.
Research shows dogs support psychological growth while increasing social skills and self-esteem in children. They provide emotional support and may decrease anxiety, which in turn has the potential to increase overall academic achievement.
“We’ve seen students who have a hard time speaking to adults or other children open-up to a dog,” said Maija, the HAPI Homes program coordinator. “Over time, that communication the student has with the dog spills over to others in the home and classroom. Before you know it, that quiet kid you worried about is a leader in his or her home and classroom … and it started with a dog.”
HAPI Homes also teaches students the responsibility that goes into caring for an animal.
Not just any four-legged friend gets to come to St. Joseph’s Indian School. Houseparents or other staff members personally own the dogs at St. Joseph’s. The dogs must meet strict guidelines to test their temperament and have documentation to prove they are up-to-date on their shots. Dogs in the program are all Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certified by the AKC and tested by a professional trainer before they can be around children. If they are declared a “good citizen”, they can come to campus and visit homes and classrooms on a leash. Dogs and students are never alone together.
Let us demonstrate, with an example of a situation that happened right here on campus.
After venturing downstairs in his pajamas, a St. Joseph’s student explained to his houseparent that he could not sleep. Every time he closed his eyes, he said he could see scary red eyes on the side of his closet.
After taking the student back up to his room, the houseparent returned shortly after with Sarge, the resident HAPI Homes dog, to look around. After Sarge deemed the room safe, the young boy was able to relax and slept soundly for the rest of the night.
It can be difficult for little ones to be away from home — especially when they first arrive at St. Joseph’s. Having a comforting presence that comes from a dog can be truly beneficial.
“The transformations are incredible,” said Maija. “We’re so happy to have more dogs on campus now. It’s a lot of fun to see the kids interact with them.”
Sadie Mae
Hey, there! I'm Sadie Mae and I am a Staffordshire Terrier who loves belly rubs and giving kisses. I'm so excited to meet new people that my whole body wiggles!
Finn
Hi, everyone! I'm Finn and I am a Morkie. I love to play fetch, go on long walks and snuggle. I am so happy to be at St. Joseph's!
Andy
Hey, y'all! Andy here! I'm a Yorkshire Terrier who likes to cuddle and play fetch. I may be the next contestant on “Dancing With the Stars” because I've got moves!
Zoe
Hello everyone, my name is Zoe! I have many relatives at St. Joseph's. I love to play fetch, cuddle and eat treats.
Whiskey
Hello, I'm Whiskey! I'm a Borderdoodle who loves playing in the river, fetching and getting belly rubs, ear scratches and snuggles. My mom is a nurse at St. Joseph's and I can't wait to make house calls to see some St. Joseph's kiddos!
Sweetness
My name is Sweetness. I‘m a Bulldog. I like to eat and sleep. I sometimes have to take a dreaded walk, so I hide when I hear my leash jingling. I like people, especially the kids at St. Joseph's.
Gizmo
My name is Gizmo, and I am a “tripod,” which means I have just three legs. I love living in the country, chasing cows, taking trips and starting conversations when kids see I’m a three-legged boy!
Frankie
My name is Frankie and I'm a girl who lived as a street dog for over five months! We don't know how my story started, but I sure know how it's going now! I love playing, herding, belly rubs and food. I love it here!
Lenny
Hello! My name is Lenny. I am a Miniature Schnauzer, sometimes known as a baby goat. I love to play, eat grass and practice my best howling skills. Most of all, I love any person who gives me attention!
Dakota
Hi! I’m Dakota, the Mini Australia Shepherd. I have the superpower of knowing when kids need attention. I like to run with the track students — I always win! But I also like slower days of cuddles and snuggles to sooth anyone who has anxiety. My favorite thing is when students want to play fetch!
Yes! The šúŋka — dog — has long played an important role in Lakota society and culture. Before the Spanish introduced horses in the 1700’s, the Lakota (Sioux) relied heavily on dogs for a variety of tasks.
Read more about The Dog.
Creating positive experiences for students that include animals is important. Along with the HAPI Homes program, St. Joseph’s Indian School has opportunities to take part in animal rescues. While not an official program, it gives the students a tremendous sense of pride to help an animal in need. You can read more about these experiences through the following stories.
Animal Blessing: Blessing the Four-Legged Who Bless St. Joseph’s
Student Animal Rescue Team Gives Old Dog New Life
Supplies Needed for Student Group that Rescues Unwanted Animals