It is a student like no other who has joined the benches of the Eugène-Atget college in Libourne (Gironde) since the start of the school year in September 2024: Verdi, a four-month-old golden retriever guide for the blind. Its role is to“ease the school climate and the tensions that may exist”according to the principal education advisor (CPE), Daniel Alonso, interviewed by Southwest .
The animal belongs to a carer for students with disabilities (AESH). The latter is a host family for a dog from the Chiens guides Grand Sud-Ouest Aliénor Bordeaux association. One of the missions of these families is the socialization of the animal. His teacher therefore shared, with the principal of the establishment, the idea of bringing Verdi to the school every day.
Read also: After 2 years of waiting, she rediscovers the pleasure of walks thanks to Shiso, a guide dog for the blind
“Everyone wants to pet him”
Very quickly, the puppy “is unanimously appreciated by everyone: students, teachers, administrative staff”assures the director of the college, Ouacila Hivert. He even became the establishment’s mascot. “Every time we go out to the playground, during playtime, everyone wants to pet him”explains his mistress.
The golden retriever mainly accompanies 15 students in the Ulis section, i.e. children suffering from physical or psychological disorders. Verdi represents a reassuring presence, but not only that. It also allows us to create links between these middle school students and others. For its well-being, the dog has places of refuge where its tranquility is assured.
To find out more: read the article by Southwest .
