Blind and deaf dog makes connections as a school therapy dog


WRITTEN BY JODI HERSEY

A blind, deaf, and stray dog from Texas is finding he lacks nothing when it comes to being a therapy dog. Enzo, a Neopolitan Mastiff, was adopted by Dawn Scovel of Etna several years ago. Scovel said she just knew her giant sidekick had a purpose despite his disabilities. 

“Even though he has these issues, he is still wonderful, and he can function every day, and he can make people smile,” Scovel explained. 

This is Enzo and Scovel’s second year working as a therapy dog team at Carmel Elementary School. The duo has a special parking spot in front of the school. Once inside, using his sense of smell, he greets the staff and many teachers before making his way to the library where students have the opportunity to read and visit with him throughout the day.

“I just come and give him love,” said third grader Lily Matson. “I like that I can pet him whenever.”

“I am more of a dog person than a cat person,” added third grader Evan Pelletier. “He sleeps a lot but he is a good boy.”

School principal Tom Vicaire said Enzo is making a difference in the school. 

“[For] each child when they come in the building, they are individuals and you never know what that child may be facing,” Vicaire explained. “Enzo brings a certain peace and calm that is a sort of comfort that the ABCs and 123s that they face each day just doesn’t bring.”

Title 1 Interventionist Ashley Jackson said “Enzo Days” at Carmel Elementary are the staff and students favorite day of the week. 

“He spreads his love, joy, and comfort,” Jackson said. “Kiddos who may struggle to read feel comfortable having a nonjudgmental person or furry friend to read to. It also helps to soothe any anxieties they may be feeling.”

Scovel said the rescue in Texas from where she adopted Enzo believes untreated ear and eye infections may have led to his blindness and deafness. 

“He cannot hear and cannot see out of one eye completely. The other eye may only see shadows,” Scovel said.

Fortunately for Enzo, none of those are qualification requirements to become a certified therapy dog.

“His job is to make the students and teachers happy,” Scovel said. “It makes my week coming to this school and doing this. I love watching the kids and their reactions.”

At just 6 years old, Enzo’s work ethic and commitment are a welcome addition to all at Carmel Elementary School. 

“Each time he comes in here you can see each child light up,” Vicaire said. “When they’re with Enzo, it’s like magic.”