Therapy dogs have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These furry friends provide emotional support and comfort to those who need it most, including students in schools. But have you ever heard of a therapy dog that weighs over 200 pounds? Meet Gabe, the Mastiff therapy dog who is making a big impact at the Riverbend Elementary School in Rockingham County, Virginia.

Despite his intimidating size, Gabe is a gentle giant who loves spending time with the kids at the school. In order to spend some one-on-one time with him, the students write letters explaining why they need Gabe’s company. He carefully reads through all of his mail and selects the kids he feels need him most. During their time with Gabe, the students learn about responsibility as they help care for him, which is an important life lesson.

But Gabe’s impact doesn’t stop there. He also “shares” the letters he receives with the teachers, allowing them to better understand what their students are going through and how they can help. This helps to create a more supportive and empathetic learning environment.

Studies have shown that therapy dogs can have a positive impact on student attendance, problem-solving skills, and behavior. They provide emotional, cognitive, and health benefits to the students they interact with. And while not all therapy dogs are as large as Gabe, the most important quality they possess is empathy and a desire to help those in need.

We hope Gabe’s story has inspired you as much as it has us. It’s heartwarming to see the impact that animals can have on our lives, especially in times when we need comfort and support. As always, please feel free to share this story with your friends and family.