West prescribes quil pills to treat student mental health
April showers bring May flowers. Although the weather may seem gloomy and bleak, there’s a new source of radiance bringing hope and joy in the form of a furry new friend. Quil, the newest addition to West staff and the only member to walk on all fours, currently lives with Katie Schmitz, the school psychologist.
“The school thought that Quil would be able to help support students and increase the positive atmosphere of West high school,” she said. “Quil previously worked with me in another district for several years where I saw the positive benefits to students and staff and wanted to be able to share that with Oshkosh West as well. It has been clinically proven that through petting, touching, and talking with animals, peoples’ blood pressure is lowered and stress is relieved.”
Quil started training for her career aspirations at a young age.
“She started her training as a puppy including obedience, manners, and overall socialization,” Schmitz said. “When she turned one, she was able to go through the testing needed to be registered as a therapy dog. That testing included her demonstrating the appropriate demeanor and obedience needed to visit a variety of facilities and unexpected situations she could encounter.”
Quil’s impressive resume doesn’t stop there. She has been recognized for her hard work and dedication to her craft.
“She received the Canine Good Citizen award through the American Kennel Club,” Schmitz said.
Like all other staff members, Quil has to follow a set list of policies. Hers are just a little more specialized.
“West received approval for Quil to come to school following district policies regarding therapy dogs,” Schmitz said. “Quil is currently coming to school one to two days a week, mostly on Wednesday and Fridays. She is usually at school the whole school day.”
Quil and Schmitz work as a power couple. Schmitz has seen changes and improvements in the students since Quil made her debut.
“Sometimes when students are stressed, sad, or have something going on, just petting her seems to make them feel better,” she said. “Having Quil in the room helps facilitate conversations as well. In general, Quil has a very gentle and calm personality and loves people, so that works great as a therapy dog.”
Senior Hallie Gonzalez is excited for the new addition.
“I think it’s very important because students have bad days when they don’t really want anything to do with school,” she said. “But when there is a dog, how could you not get all happy and have them cheer you up?”
Junior Brandon Triebold was one of the first students to meet Quil.
“I liked how calm and friendly she was towards me,” he said. “She’s a great addition to the staff because of her good energy she always brings. Quil will be able to help a lot of students cheer up on a bad day.”
For Schmitz, Quil is so much more than a furry companion. Their cross-species connection was the answer to her dream when pursuing her job.
“I had done a lot of research on therapy dogs in schools and was in a position where the school was supportive, so I began to do my research and move forward with my dream to incorporate it into my work,” she said. “When she began coming here, there was no question that it was worth it. The students responded and liked time with her so much, and she loved being with the students and staff.”
Gonzalez recognizes the engagement between the student body and Quil.
“I think even if they are having a good day, students are not going to pass up an opportunity to say hi to Quil,” she said. “I personally plan on visiting her. I want to give cuddles and pet her and get a chance to see the cute dog.”
Quil’s schedule is laid out and organized with time slots for students to sign-up for.
“My office is W15 so most of the time you will find her here unless we have special things scheduled in other locations in the building,” Schmitz said. “If a student would want to meet with Quil, they could schedule an appointment.”
Gonzalez is thankful for Quil and the new opportunities granted by her presence.
“Quil’s an amazing addition to the staff because of the good energy that radiates off of her,” she said. “It’s always fun to have a furry friend be a part of anything.”
Schmitz can’t wait to see the pawprints Quil will leave behind at West.
“I have already noticed that so many people smile and have said that it made their day to just give her a quick pat,” she said. “I hope that she will help contribute to the positive environment and provide support to students who may need it.”
By Lily Fournier
Oshkosh West Index Volume 118 Issue 7
April 25th, 2022