Therapy Dog Maya Supports Wellness at Sutherland High School

Sutherland High School’s grade 9 English class welcomed a special visitor on October 23, 2025—Maya, an 8-year-old Goldendoodle with Therapy Dogs International certification. Accompanied by social worker Dave Pascarella, Maya helped provide a comfortable environment for students to explore mental health themes in a book they are reading.

This unique approach—using therapy dogs to deepen classroom discussions about emotional well-being—is one Pascarella has led for several years. The visit provided students with an opportunity to talk openly about how to recognize when someone might be struggling and to learn about the resources available at SHS if they or a friend need support.

Since the Pittsford Central School District approved its therapy dog policy three years ago, Maya has become a beloved part of the Sutherland community. She visits the school most Thursdays, offering comfort in classrooms and hallways, and even has her own Instagram page, @missmayapuppy. She also joins Pascarella for special events or when her presence might be especially helpful. Early in the school year, she visits frequently so that students have a chance to meet her and feel comfortable around her.

Maya is joined by eight other lucky therapy dogs in the District. With their affectionate and calming personalities, Pittsford’s therapy dogs show that small acts of comfort can make a big difference in supporting mental health and connection.