Cape Henlopen Summer Programs Keep Students Learning, Growing, and Connected

The Cape Henlopen School District is proud to continue its partnership with the Tri-State Canine Response Team, whose therapy dog visits have become a favorite tradition for students during summer programs and throughout the school year.

During each visit, trained therapy dogs Luca and Fia, accompanied by Tri-State Canine Response Team members Gail Hamman and Ruth Osman, spend time interacting with students in classrooms and learning spaces. These special visits provide students with meaningful opportunities to build positive connections, reduce stress, and experience the comfort and companionship that therapy dogs bring.

Beyond the excitement of meeting the dogs, the program plays an important role in supporting students' social-emotional well-being. Interacting with therapy dogs can help students feel more relaxed, improve their confidence, encourage positive communication, and create a calming atmosphere that supports learning. The visits also contribute to fostering welcoming, supportive school environments where students feel safe, connected, and engaged.

The Tri-State Canine Response Team's commitment to serving schools has made a lasting impact on the Cape community. Whether visiting during summer learning programs or throughout the academic year, Luca, Fia, Gail, and Ruth are always greeted with smiles, excitement, and plenty of tail wags. Their visits leave such a positive impression that one question is heard time and time again from students: "When are the dogs coming back?"