The party was held in University Commons, complete with a cake and cookies with Teddy’s photo on them. Students, faculty, and staff showered him with all his favorite things—chin scratches, belly rubs, and lots of attention.
In the two years since Teddy arrived on campus, the friendly labrador retriever has become a welcome daily presence. Along with his handler and best friend, Public Safety Officer Michael Calderon, Teddy spends his days roaming from one end of campus to the other, spreading positivity, calming nerves, soothing stress, helping with homesickness, or just providing a moment of zen for anyone passing by.
But Teddy’s mission also takes him into the surrounding communities and across Connecticut. He visits children’s hospitals, attends law enforcement and military funerals, and goes to sporting events for UHart and other local teams. He was born into a New York City-based program called Puppies Behind Bars, which raises service dogs for veterans, first responders, and public safety organizations.
Attendees at the birthday bash could pick up some Teddy merchandise, including pins and hoodies. Proceeds will go back into the Public Safety Department’s K-9 program, allowing Teddy to keep brightening days both on and off campus.