Hofstra University Introduces Dutch, a Future Service Dog

Dutch will spend over a year on campus interacting with students and learning skills essential for his future role before returning to Smithtown, New York, to complete his training. John Miller, president and CEO of the Guide Dog Foundation and America’s VetDogs, has worked with various organizations on this initiative. Miller, a two-time Hofstra alumnus, expressed personal pride in this collaboration, saying, “This will be our first university doing ‘Puppy With a Purpose.’ Where else better to have it than at my own alma mater – Hofstra.”

The program also seeks a co-collaborator to assist Associate Professor and psychologist Deborah Elkis-Abuhoff in raising and socializing Dutch. A student will be responsible for his care, taking him to classes, and teaching him how to navigate different environments, ultimately benefiting the future veteran who will adopt him.

Elkis-Abuhoff emphasized the need for patience in this role, stating, “We’re looking for somebody who can be patient and understand … they’re trying to get a dog to the finish line to help a first responder.”

This initiative is just the beginning, with plans to integrate “Puppy With a Purpose” more deeply into Hofstra’s community, potentially creating a club focused on raising more service dogs. Several students have already shown interest in getting involved. Sophomore Sophia Sobelman Simha commented, “I think it’s a good development for Hofstra University because it gives kids another chance to contribute, and it’s contributing in a fun way.”

Most dogs in the Guide Dog Foundation program are Labradors that go on to serve various roles, including as vet dogs and guide dogs. Dutch, however, will be on campus for a shorter duration, compared to Mack, a community resource dog who serves as an ambassador for Hofstra’s Public Safety program.

Hofstra University aims to set an example for other institutions, with President Susan Poser noting the minimal resources required for successful implementation of such programs. She hopes every university will consider similar initiatives, highlighting the potential for thousands more companion dogs for veterans.

Hofstra already has established ties with service members through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program and features a veteran’s lounge for students. Poser remarked on the importance of demonstrating commitment to veterans and the university community as a whole.

Student Government Association President Maisa Ahmad believes Dutch will positively impact campus life. “The purpose of Dutch is to make sure that students feel comfortable on campus, specifically our veterans and first responders,” Ahmad stated.

Students interested in participating in Dutch’s journey can apply via the America’s VetDogs website and follow updates on social media.