Ann Arbor Times

This fall, students at Eastern Michigan University (EMU) will have the opportunity to meet a new four-legged staff member, Tinker, a certified assistance golden retriever. Tinker will provide emotional comfort and relief to students and the EMU campus community.

Tinker, a two-year-old golden retriever, joined EMU in the summer after completing her initial training and certification with Paws With A Cause, a national organization dedicated to enhancing independence and quality of life for people with disabilities through custom-trained assistance dogs. Her specialized training was further tailored on campus.

“She is not a support for one specific person,” said Jennifer Kellman-Fritz, dean of the College of Health and Human Services and Tinker’s primary handler. “Rather, we will work with various student groups and faculty who want to spend time with her. Of course, when a specific person needs her support, she will also have a lot of one-on-one time to give.”

Research shows that dogs can positively impact people’s lives, including improving mental and physical health, companionship, and mindfulness.

PAWS Dogs have over 40 tasks they could be trained in, including retrieving and delivering dropped items, tugging to remove items of clothing, and opening doors.

Tinker will be stationed in the Health and Human Services building throughout the summer. Starting in the fall, students can find her at the following locations:

- Mondays and Thursdays: 206B Marshall, Dean Fritz’s office

- Tuesdays and Wednesdays: Halle 200, Alexis Braun Marks’ office at Halle Library

Tinker will also be available to visit other locations on campus as needed during her working hours.

Fritz said she is looking forward to the opportunities Tinker will provide on campus. “She is the sweetest dog I have ever met, and she brightens everyone's day. I can’t wait to see what she can do for the community.”

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education.

For more information about Eastern Michigan University or to stay up-to-date on university news activities and announcements visit EMU Today.