Service Dog Receives Honorary Master's Degree
By Mother Nature Network (mnn.com) | Pets – 3 hours ago
Kirsch, a golden retriever and college graduateThe Johns Hopkins University School of Education recently had its first four-legged graduate. Earlier this year, a golden retriever named Kirsch received an honorary Master of Science in Counseling for attending all of his owner's classes.
The service dog donned a cap and gown along with his owner, Carlos Mora, and as the two walked across the stage, the following statement was read:
"Our last counseling degree graduate to walk across the stage tonight is Carlos Mora and his service dog, Kirsch. Since Kirsch sat through every class with Carlos, both will be receiving a master's degree in mental health counseling. We want everyone to know that Kirsch was not charged for his degree."
Like the other graduates' diplomas, Kirsch's is signed by School of Education Dean David Andrews and Vice Dean of Academic Affairs Dr. Cheryl Holcomb-McCoy.
Kirsch isn't the first dog to participate in a graduation ceremony.
Also earlier this year a chocolate Labrador named Hero wore a cap and gown to escort his wheelchair-bound owner at her graduation from the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign. And an Indiana high school comfort dog named Prince led 2013 graduates to the football field for their convocation.
