The Calais School is thrilled to announce the arrival of Tenney, a Canine Companions® Facility Dog. Calais is the only school in New Jersey to boast a Canine Companions® Facility Dog on staff. 

Tenney, a 2-year-old yellow golden Retriever/Labrador mix, will be working with Ms. Porter-Avino and the Calais School’s Admission team where he will be participating in school tours, meet & greets and special events. He will be offering his emotional support to help alleviate anxiety for both students and parents.

After a year-long application process, Calais was awarded the opportunity to receive a facility dog through Canine Companions for Independence, a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people by providing highly trained assistance dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.

Ms. Porter-Avino, who will be Tenney’s handler, recently completed a two-week training program with professional Canine Companions® instructors which included intensive lectures, hands-on training, and multiple examinations in order to acquire public certification. 

Tenney, born and bred in New York, has been training since he was only 8 weeks old. He spent his puppy years visiting schools and adores children, which would explain why he was carefully matched with Ms. Porter-Avino.

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Get to Know Tenney: A Letter to Students

Dear Calais Students, 
I am tail-wagging excited to be working at your school and hope to gradually say hello to each of you when and if you feel comfortable meeting me. 
I am a very special dog with some unusual skills and abilities. In fact, I know over 40 commands such as “visit” and “lap”. I can also pull toy wagons, push drawers closed and retrieve all kinds of items. I love all kinds of food, but I’m limited to kibble to keep me in top shape for my work at Calais. My favorite toy is a stuffed goat that I received as a graduation present from my puppy raisers when I was back in New York. When I’m not at the Calais School, my favorite pastime is playing fetch with my dog cousin Remington. I also love meeting and chasing other dogs, but some humans say that I can be a bit of a ball hog! 
If you see me in the hallways at Calais, please come over and say hello.  You will recognize me by my blue vest that I’m always wearing marked “Canine Companions.” 
Have a good day in school!
Your Pal,
Tenney