Therapy Dog New Big Man On Campus At Suburban School
(CBS) -- You could call him the big dog on campus these days.
Buck is a three-year-old boxer mix and he's the newest addition to the staff at Buffalo Grove High School.
"Everyone loves him. He comes to school with me every day and everyone screams his name, Buck, Buck", said Amy Silverman, the dog's handler and Special Education teacher.
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Silverman says since his arrival, he's made quite the impression on students and staff.
"He spends his day attending groups, a grief group, a girls group, a social communication group, he's in a special ed that I teach with a psychologist for kids with autism."
Silverman says students who aren't comfortable speaking talk to Buck.
"It gives them confidence, it makes them feel safe. They tells us their problems and issues easier when the dog is there."
Silverman added that being around Buck improves students' self-esteem and confidence, reduces anxiety, opens lines of communication and provides affection and coping skills for all, especially those dealing with challenges.
Earlier this month, B.G.H.S. held a fundraiser, "Buck for a Buck," in which staff and students could have their photos taken with Buck for a dollar.
Buck just graduated from training school in Peoria on Tuesday and lives with Silverman. He even has his own Twitter handle and already has more than 500 followers.
Buck and Silverman will continue to train for the rest of the Buck's life.
"His personality fits perfectly, he was born to do this."
