Org provides ‘fur therapy’ and lessons in selflessness

Ohio University 4 Paws for Ability is a university club that works with the Xenia-based nonprofit also called 4 Paws for Ability, that breeds, trains and places service dogs for children and veterans across the country. OHIO’s 4 Paws organization incorporates students into the raising, training and socializing of service dogs before the dogs graduate to advanced training. OHIO’s group was founded in 2016 and the larger nonprofit has been around since 1998.

Josie Clark, the organization’s president, answered some questions about the club and its impact. Clark is a third-year child and family studies major with a certificate in gerontology.

Q: What are the benefits of belonging to your organization?

A: One of the biggest benefits of being in the club is the “fur therapy” I get every week. Leaving animals back home is hard for a lot of college students and our club members can get that fix in our club. On the more serious end, it has taught me a new form of responsibility and selflessness because of the purpose of the club.

Q: What makes your org special or unique?

A: Our organization is special because of how selfless it is. We get attached to these dogs for around a year to then give them up to a family who needs them. It teaches a lot of responsibility and teamwork which I believe is a unique experience in a club. We have very disciplined members because of the number of rules we must follow through the non-profit.

Q: What kind of events and activities do you plan?

A: Some activities we have held [during spring semester] are dog yoga, pictures with pups, crafting with canines, sit-stay study, residence hall events, green events, Columbus Zoo trips, and so much more. Typically, our events center around socializing the dogs and getting them used to new experiences but also create fun environments for our members to enjoy their time with the dogs.

Q: How has being a member personally benefited you or enhanced your OHIO experience?

A: Being in this club has made my OHIO experience amazing. It has shown me a new passion for service animals and individuals with disabilities. I never knew what I would have as a passion for my future, and I found it within this club. I also have made such amazing friends as well. One of the biggest things this club has done for me is teach me how to speak to adults in positions of power and how to advocate for myself and my club.

Q: Share some of your best memories from your time as a member.

A: My best memories in 4 Paws are day to day getting to see the dogs out and about. It breaks up the day and always brings a smile to my face seeing the dogs working towards their future. I also love every event we do. Getting to spend time with friends and watching the dogs play makes every event special.

Ohio University 4 Paws for Ability is active on Instagram and can also be found on Facebook.