Lightning Brings Connection and Calm to Ivymount
Ivymount is excited to welcome back our popular four-legged team member: Lightning, a yellow Labrador Retriever who plays a unique role in supporting students.
Lightning originally trained with Guiding Eyes for the Blind, where he was raised as part of its puppy raiser program. He was socialized in a wide variety of environments and showed the calm, attentive temperament needed for service work. But after being diagnosed with hip dysplasia, Lightning was medically released from the program.
The timing lined up with conversations Carley Sturges, Ivymount’s Adapted Physical Education teacher, was having with school leadership about implementing a therapy dog program. Lightning joined the Ivymount community in August 2024 and has been making an impact ever since.
Support Through Presence and Play
Students across programs have responded immediately and positively. Some who came in tired or anxious have said that seeing Lightning made them feel “awake and happy.” Others report feeling calm or excited after petting him. Another family shared that their student wakes up happiest on Wednesdays, knowing they’ll see Lightning that day.
Sturges has seen students physically relax in his presence; noting tense shoulders dropping and posture softening. His visits also open the door to organic, authentic social interactions, as students comment on Lightning, ask questions, or share dog stories of their own, sparking connection with peers.
Busy Days, Big Impact
Lightning has a standing schedule every Wednesday. He starts with the Endeavors program, welcomes visitors throughout the day, and participates in physical therapy, speech, and social skills sessions. Students and staff have seen specific examples of growth by getting Lightning involved.
His presence gives Carley a new window into this student growth. “I’m usually focused on physical education, so I don’t always get to see the progress students make in other areas,” she shared. “With Lightning, I’ve been able to be part of that. It’s been really rewarding.”
In PT, one student walks down the hallway without stopping by pushing a cart with a treat to deliver to Lightning at the end. In speech, another student stutters significantly less during sessions with Lightning present. He’s also become a strong motivator, as one student earns the chance to walk Lightning by meeting weekly math goals.
“He remembers his regulars,” Sturges said. “When he hears their voices in the hallway, his tail starts wagging.”
One high school student summarized his impact by simply stating: “Seeing a dog here makes coming to school worth it.”
Work-Life Balance
When he’s off duty, Lightning enjoys the usual dog hobbies: walks, toys, and switching between fetch and tug-of-war. But it’s clear that being at school is one of his favorite things.
One of her favorite moments was a painting project with Aspire students, where Lightning joined in on the activity and brought out a lot of smiles.
Looking ahead, Ivymount hopes to certify Lightning officially as a therapy dog and explore new ways to integrate him into mental health, OT, PT, and speech support.
