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Louisiana Lead TSO and Her Therapy Dog Reach Out to Their Community

News & Happenings

August 10, 2007

As a lead transportation security officer at Monroe (La.) Regional Airport, Rhonda Fowler brings assistance and compassion to travelers every day, just as her 3-year-old gray Weimaraner, Ellie, does for people in libraries, nursing homes and hospitals.

Fowler and Ellie are one of 23 teams in the local PAWS (Progressive Animal Welfare Society), an animal rescue organization. Ellie has been specially trained as a therapy dog that deals closely with people in all types of settings. She lends an ear to children learning to read, brings residents together in nursing homes and brightens the days of patients in hospitals.

“I see a huge connection between my work with Ellie and my work at TSA,” Fowler said. “Ellie has taught me to be a little more compassionate with people who may be anxious or afraid of the [security] process, and to use humor a lot more.”

Ellie also participates in Fowler’s duties as a TSA-approved instructor, playing the role of both guide and service dog in TSO training.

Fowler hopes Ellie will “spark more people to get involved with their animals and share the love and happiness they can bring to others.”