Four years ago Maslow, the Channel Islands High School Wellness Center therapy dog, joined the Raider family.
Maslow will essentially graduate with the 2026 class- paws and all.
“He’s been a good bridge for people that might still have some mental health stigmas, or having second thoughts about coming in to talk to somebody,” said Wellness Center technician Naidelyn Guerrero.
Donated to CI from VIP Dogs, a nonprofit organization specializing in community and facility therapy dogs, Maslow has a few accolades under his collar: K9 Good Citizen Award and a Novice Trick certificate. Maslow spends his time off the clock with Elizabeth Cervantes, Wellness Center specialist.
Guerrero mentioned that having a therapy dog work for the school was initially a very unconventional idea as the concept needed approval by Cervantes before proceeding. “The idea of Maslow was very niche, and if it wasn’t for Ms. Cervantes’ approval, I don’t know if we would be where we are today,” Guerrero said.
On campus, Maslow has been a significant resource of help for many students seeking comfort. “He has a really good sense of who needs support,” said Kimberly Vasquez, Wellness Center specialist.
Wellness Center Peer President Jimena Perez Ayala added that during her time as a Wellness Peer on campus she has seen Maslow grow from a puppy to an outstanding Wellness Center employee. “He has grown up so much in the past four years,” said Jimena. “He’s developed new skills but also seeing him comfort the students is the sweetest thing ever.”
In 2022, Fox Los Angeles ran a story where they covered Maslow as a therapy dog in training. At the time, Wellness Centers were brand new to the Oxnard Union High School District. The Wellness Centers across the school district were created to help students adjust to life after the pandemic, returning to school campuses Fall 2021.
Vasquez, a part of the first Wellness Center staff at CI, views the addition of Maslow as another resource available to help the staff identify student needs when present.
“If a kid walks in and they’re feeling either stressed or just really sad, he has a good way of changing up the mood,” said Vasquez. “He’s kind of comforting them without knowing that’s literally his job.”
Cervantes mentioned that there are a lot of benefits to having a therapy dog around, especially for students.“Therapy dogs can provide comfort, reduce stress and anxiety, and help students feel calmer during difficult moments,” said Cervantes.
Maslow’s employment for the past four years has benefited the Wellness Center as another resource available to the student population. His presence is felt by the students upon entering the center, often scoring pets and sometimes treats from both students and Raider staff.
“The center has become a place where students feel safe seeking guidance, emotional support, and connection,” said Cervantez. “It has also helped promote a stronger focus on mental health and overall student wellness across campus.”
As he enters his graduation era, Maslow’s place as a respected employee has been cemented.
“Without him, I feel like the center would feel empty,” said Vasquez. “It’s a lot of work, but I also feel like it’s so beneficial for the students.”
“He’s what makes the center complete.”
