Peabody Community School Gets a Visit from Pally the Service Dog

This spring, the DHSP’s Peabody Community School hosted an animal-themed April Break Camp, featuring a special Animal Career Day! The afterschool program welcomed guests from the Animal Commission, Cambridge Police, and the Commission for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD).  Kate Thurman, Deputy Director of CCPD, brought along Pally, her NEADS World Class Service Dog. Pally is a gentle Black Lab and was a big hit with the kids. Kate gave a fantastic presentation on the important role service dogs play in supporting people with disabilities.

“Pally and I were honored to be invited to Animal Career Day and thoroughly enjoyed speaking with the kids about his job as a dually trained service dog for both hearing and mobility!” says Kate. “The students asked great questions and were quick to understand why it’s important to keep from distracting service animals by petting them, talking to them, or making eye contact. They were especially thrilled to learn about his 'Say hello!' command, after which they could love on him!”

For more information about the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, visit www.cambridgema.gov/CCPD.

Photo: Children from the Peabody Community School learn about the role of a service dog from Kate Thurman and Pally (center).