Meet Onyx — The COA’s Future Therapy Dog

The Cass County Council on Aging is excited to introduce the newest—and possibly furriest—member of the COA family: Onyx, a one-year-old black Lab who is preparing to become the COA’s therapy dog.

After being adopted from Cass County Animal Control, she completed a training program through Refurbished Pets of Southern Michigan and is now preparing for the next step in her journey.  In the coming weeks, Onyx will receive additional professional therapy dog training through Dog Training Elite Michiana. Once her training is complete, she will begin spending time at the COA, getting to know our participants, staff and volunteers.

A Special Job at the COA

Onyx will have an important role at the COA.  Therapy dogs can provide companionship, comfort and opportunities for social interaction. Sometimes a friendly dog, a wagging tail and a few minutes of attention can brighten someone's entire day.  We hope Onyx will become a familiar face around the COA—greeting participants, visiting programs and activities, spending time with older adults and generally adding a little extra happiness wherever she goes.

Of course, like every new COA employee, Onyx still needs an official job title.  The current frontrunners are: Onyx, COA Director of Pawblic Relations and Onyx, Chief Cuddle Officer

It Takes a Community

Onyx's journey to the COA is a great example of what can happen when local organizations work together.

We are grateful to Cass County Animal Control for helping connect us with Onyx, to Refurbished Pets of Southern Michigan for the training and care they provided, and to Dog Training Elite Michiana for helping prepare her for her future role as a therapy dog.  The COA is also working with community partners to help support Onyx's ongoing care as she begins her new career.

Ultimately, this program is about more than adding a dog to the COA. It is about creating another opportunity for connection, companionship and joy for the older adults we serve.

Follow Onyx’s Journey

Onyx still has some training to complete before she officially reports for duty, but we'll be sharing updates as she gets ready for her new role.  Watch the COA's website, social media pages and Messenger newsletter for pictures, training updates and, eventually, information about where you can meet Onyx.  We can't wait for you to meet her.

Thanks to everyone who has helped Onyx become the super pup she is today!