School in Arkansas Mourns the Loss of Their Beloved Emotional Support Dog Abby

A school in Jonesboro, Arkansas, mourns its emotional support dog, Abby. She was an 8-year-old golden retriever who passed away unexpectedly and made her way over the rainbow bridge. Abby had been the emotional support specialist for five years at University Heights School of Medical Arts.

Everyone at the school is now mourning the dog that brought them so much joy. They had such a wonderful experience having her at the school. “It didn’t matter if I was sad or down. I always had a smile on my face when I saw her,” 5th-grade student Camille Stanley said about the beloved canine.

Abby Always Showed Compassion

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“Abby always showed us compassion, and I think that’s important in the school setting,” Educator Mitzi Young shared. “If you needed an extra little bit of attention, she would stay with you.” Abby seemed to know exactly what people at the school needed.

Abby and her handler, Bryce Holmes, visited the classrooms, played outside during recess, and even went on field trips.

“Every time she would sit by the table I’m working at, it would feel like she’s working with us,” another 5th grader, Kai Odom shared.

The School is Heartbroken and Mourns the Dog They All Loved So Much

Abby spent her last day at school doing what she loved. Later that day, she unexpectedly passed away. “She just collapsed,” Principal Lisa Hogan said. “We knew eventually Abby would die, but I mean, she was only 8 years old, so we sure didn’t think it was any time close.”

The students and staff at the school were understandably heartbroken. Not only did they lose their favorite dog, but they also lost a friend. The 5th graders in Mitzi Young’s class decided to organize “Operation Abby” in her honor. They collected pet supplies and money for the Northeast Arkansas Human Society.

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The school plans to get another support dog in the future, but right now, it mourns for the dog that brought them so much love and joy.

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted" - Matthew 5:4

WATCH: School in Arkansas Mourns the Loss of Their Beloved Emotional Support Dog Abby

LISTEN: 8-Year-Old Raises Over $100k For Favorite Waffle House Waiter | After Over 450 Days, Boone and Rellie Find Forever Home

h/t: K8 News 

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Julie Provost is a GodUpdates staff writer and editor. She lives in Tennessee with her husband, three boys, and little dog Max. She loves to read, go to the movies, and enjoy time with family and friends.