Meet Sasquatch (Sassy)

Breed:  American Bulldog/Mastiff

Barking from:  Auckland

What's up dog?

Sasquatch (Sassy): The Heart of The Gardens School

Sassy, our beloved school dog, has transformed our school by bringing joy, comfort, and a sense of community. She came to us as a puppy and is now a sophisticated six-year-old companion to many. Her presence positively impacts students, staff, and the overall atmosphere.

Purpose:
Sassy belongs to our principal Mrs Fowler but comes to school every day to provide emotional support and promote mental well-being among students and staff. From day one, she offered unconditional love and companionship, especially benefiting students facing anxiety, stress, or difficult home situations.

Reach:
Sassy's influence extends throughout the school. She visits classrooms, lounges in the principal's window box, and attends assemblies and staff meetings. Teachers use her to teach empathy and responsibility, making her visits a highlight of the day.

Impact:
Sassy's impact is profound. Here are a few examples: One student, grieving a family loss, found solace in Sassy's gentle nature. Sassy helps with academic improvement- Students read aloud to Sassy, boosting their reading skills and confidence. Sassy bridges gaps by fostering friendships and social interactions among students from different year levels and backgrounds.

Sassy is also VERY quirky and fun. She chases her tail, and can often steal fresh bakery items out of Senior Management's bags. She brings laughter and light-hearted moments, even sighing at really inappropriate quiet moments in (boring) meetings with visitors. She greets everyone with a wagging tail and a big yawn (let's face it, she is extremely lazy and is a great sleeper). Sassy makes each person feel special.

Sassy's presence has created a more inclusive, supportive, and joyful school environment. Her purpose, reach, impact and delightful quirkiness make her truly deserving of this award. Sassy isn't just a school dog; she's a beloved member of our school family, touching hearts and changing lives.

2024 NZ Top Office Dog Award

Judging and criteria

This award will be judged on:

Purpose

Four-legged support can be shown in multiple ways and furry forms in the workplace, and this award celebrates a supreme dog that supports their people to do their best mahi. We are looking for a top office dog with tail wags, affectionate licks, playful walks and that special presence that boosts their owner and co-worker’s mental health while contributing to a positive work culture. They may be a work from home dog, an office dog – or a hybrid pooch! 

Reach

Is the dog dedicated to improving the life of one human, or an entire team?

Impact

How big an impact does this dog have in the workplace? Explain how much your canine friend has improved mental health at work or office culture, and give examples of how they have made an impact. 

Quirky

All dogs are special. Does your dog possess a superpower? Please note their special talent or a trick they perform on demand.