In January 2010, our launch of the Mutt-i-grees Curriculum welcomed 40 educators from Fenton Charter schools in Los Angeles California that participated in the 1st Mutt-i-grees training in New York. During the visit to North Shore Animal League America’s Rescue and Adoption Center, guidance counselor Toni Frear fell in love with one of our rescue dogs. Toni adopted the dog, named him Jeter, a plane ticket was purchased for him and off he went to begin his new life as the very first Mutt-i-grees School Dog. Hundreds of elementary students cheered his arrival as he entered the school for a red-carpet ceremony. Jeter became an integral part of the school community, helping many students.
“I don’t see Jeter every day but he’s always in my mind.”
In the large schools, not all students could see him every day, but his presence was a positive force that echoed the hallways even when he wasn’t there. One student said: “I don’t see Jeter every day but he’s always in my mind.” Also, the suggestion box that was created to give all students a means to communicate with Jeter was very popular. Students would send Jeter messages to help them problem solve obstacles they were facing. He was so busy wearing many hats he had multiple vests he wore proudly depending on his assigned subjects of the day.
After serving the school community for more than 12 years, even after his pet parent retired, Jeter sadly crossed the rainbow bridge. We will miss Jeter deeply, but he will always be remembered by those he touched. To our beloved Jeter, we thank you for making this world a better place for so many. Forever in our hearts.
