Meet Bindi, DJDS's New Therapy Dog In Training

This year, Denver Jewish Day School introduced Bindi, an eight-month-old Australian Bernedoodle, as part of a new therapy animal initiative. 

Upper Division Principal Dr. Jeremy Golubcow-Teglasi, known as Dr. G-T, said the idea came up spontaneously, but after some thought and research, it seemed worthwhile. He hopes Bindi can help ease students’ transition to the new phone policy by providing a healthy distraction. After consulting with Head of School Avi Halzel, Dr. G-T visited the English, social studies, and math office and asked if anyone would be interested in owning a therapy dog for the school. 

Andria Rabenold, an upper division math teacher, volunteered and began researching potential therapy dogs, eventually finding Bindi. Currently, Bindi is being trained by Noble Beast Dog Training, with plans for more one-on-one training sessions this semester and over the summer. 

“Right now, it’s about socializing and basic training,” Rabenold said. Bindi comes to school about one day a week, but Rabenold hopes to increase her visits to two or three day a week this semester. While Bindi is still in training until she turns one years old, Rabenold emphasizes that she can support anyone struggling with school stress. 

“I think that a properly trained dog can do wonders to help kids with anxiety or if they’re having a bad day,” said Evan Pfaff, a parent of two upper division students. 

Still, some students remain skeptical, including ninth grader, Nitzalliah Festinger. “I don’t believe that school is an environment to have a dog or any animal,” she said. 

Despite this, Bindi will continue to support students at DJDS, and Rabenold is confident her hard work will pay off. "Bindi makes me a little happier when it’s the end of the day,” said Kobi Benel, a ninth grader.