Comfort K-9 Program Creates Emotional Outlet for West Fargo Students

Easing anxieties is even more important in the wake of recent tragic events.

WEST FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Imagine this.

You’re trying to do silent reading in your elementary school classroom, but something’s bothering you.

Maybe you slept poorly or just had an argument with your best friend.

Then you look up – and you see Bella.

“She loves to work. She loves to be here. She loves people,” said Bella’s handler, student resource officer Todd Pearson.

The yellow lab mix has been partnered with Pearson since 2022.

The tandem goes all throughout the district, but their home base is here at Westside Elementary, where Principal Chris Kalsow has seen firsthand the benefit of Bella’s presence.

“A lot of the kids just come in and are more joyful, being able to see her and pet her in the morning,” said Kalsow.

Officer Pearson explains that Bella just has a way of restoring calm for a student having trouble regulating their emotions.

Especially in the wake of the recent tragedy at the Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis – both Pearson and Kalsow say it’s key to have this type of resource available for anyone that may be anxious.

“I really like the word ‘comfort dog’,” said Pearson. “It applies to everybody that needs a little comfort, and that’s what Bella’s here for.

“Maybe students are having a hard time navigating their emotions,” added Kalsow. “Bella can come in and kind of snuggle right into some of those learners, make them feel comfortable, get them through some of those tougher moments.”