LANCASTER, Pa. — This patient yellow lab is making a "pawsitive" impact on the Bainbridge Elementary community.
He's affectionately known as the school's pack leader. Each morning, Josh greets students, helping them start their school days with a smile.
"Getting out of the car, they're groggy, they're still tired, but they see Josh and right away they perk up," said principal Amanda Baxter. "'Can I pet Josh? Hi, Josh. How are you, Josh?'"
Of course, all that attention can be exhausting. So Josh enjoys lounging around once he gets into the classroom.
But he's always lending a helping ear, allowing students to feel valued and heard.
"He's there for them. He doesn't respond when they talk to him. He's just there to listen," said counselor Taylor Eisenhart. "And then sometimes that's all kids need."
Josh began his role as a facility dog at Bainbridge this past spring. He was one of many puppies trained and certified through the United Disabilities Services Foundation.
These intelligent dogs are brought to prisons across Pennsylvania and taught by inmates in the "Relying on Furry Friends" Program. Josh was trained to ease kids' anxiety while helping out in the classroom.
And it’s easy to see that Josh has left a lasting impact on every person he's come into contact with.
"He just gives that security, that safety, that welcoming feeling to everyone," said Baxter.
Josh was named in memory of a teen who unexpectedly passed away, Josh Smith, the son of Jefferson County Representative Brian Smith. Brian was able to also spend some time with the yellow lab.