Story #22: Magic’s Quiet Impact
As told by Glenn Lambert, Healing Paws Volunteer
I take my dog, Magic, to many places in Elgin and the surrounding towns as part of Anderson Humane’s Healing Paws program. Together, we are a Certified Comfort Dog team. Every visit brings its own story, but one day stands out in a way I will never forget.
We were asked to visit St. Charles North High School on the day students were taking their SATs. As we settled into the room, one student approached me and said, “I’m so glad you came. I really need this. If I don’t get a high score, I might not get into the college I want.”
I told her to close her eyes, gently sink her fingers into Magic’s fur, and take a few slow, deep breaths. I asked her to picture herself feeling calm and confident as she took the test. I do not know how her exam turned out, but I do know this. When she walked out of the room, her shoulders were lower, her breathing was steadier, and she looked more at ease than when she walked in.
That moment changed my perspective. Before that day, I had wondered why perfectly healthy students would benefit from a comfort dog visit. That student gave me the answer. Stress, pressure, and expectations weigh heavily, even when everything looks fine on the surface.
Because of that experience, I now return to the school whenever I am asked during finals or SAT testing days. I never question the importance of our visits anymore. Everyone has something to gain from time spent with a comfort dog.
Magic reminds me every day that presence matters. A quiet moment, a soft coat to touch, and an animal who offers calm without judgment can make a meaningful difference. I am proud that Anderson Humane offers Healing Paws and that these Certified Comfort Dog teams are available to visit schools, healthcare facilities, and community spaces. It is something truly special and something worth sharing.
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Meet adoptable animals at Anderson Humane by visiting ahconnects.org/adopt, or help make the next 60 stories possible by donating in honor of our 60th Anniversary.
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Visit ahconnects.org/healing-paws/ for more information on how you can get involved.
