Meet our Service Dogs
We’re thrilled to introduce three new members of the SamSmile team! Clover, Otis, and Dewey are ready to brighten the halls of our local Rochester community schools. Together, they’ll be offering comfort, encouragement, and plenty of smiles as they support our students.
These wonderful dogs are training with The Fur Angels, a Michigan-based group of trained volunteer handlers and their certified therapy dogs. The Fur Angels team visits schools, hospitals, senior living communities, and other establishments throughout Metro Detroit, with a simple but powerful mission: to make each day a little brighter and a lot happier. With the support of their dedicated volunteer handlers, Clover, Otis, and Dewey are proud to be part of this effort to spread joy.
Clover
Meet our sweet and cuddly Clover, who proudly serves at Hart Middle School! She began her meaningful work in January 2026, shortly after celebrating her first birthday, partnering with her handler, Jayme Aschemeyer-LaValley, and working alongside Jeremy LaValley, the school counselor at Hart Middle School.
With a gentle spirit and a wagging tail, Clover brings extra comfort and support to the students at Hart Middle School each day.
Otis
Meet Otis, our friendly and devoted service dog at Upland Hills School! Otis brings warmth and comfort wherever he goes. A beloved member of the Himburg family, he began his therapy dog training at four years old, showing a natural gift for connecting with children and offering calm support when it’s needed most.
Now, Otis proudly serves students in the Upland community, brightening hallways, classrooms, and hearts. He works closely with his dedicated handler, Kyna Getsinger, alongside Rob Himburg, Director of Upland Hills School, forming a compassionate team committed to nurturing the well-being of every student they serve.
Dewey
Meet Dewy, the newest (and fluffiest!) future service dog at Stoney Creek High School. Dewy is joining the Parsons family and will soon begin puppy classes with the goal of being fully trained, certified, and ready to work by his first birthday — less than a year away.
He’ll be growing, learning, and preparing for his important role alongside Glenn Parsons and Lisa Parsons, SCHS Attendance Secretary. We can’t wait to watch Dewy’s journey as he trains to bring connection and plenty of puppy joy to the Stoney Creek community!