St. Kateri School’s newest employee met students in every class Monday and Tuesday, but she was tuckered out and needed a nap by 10 a.m. Tuesday.

Violet, a 2-year-old chocolate Labrador retriever, is on her first week on the job as a therapy dog with the district. She shares an office with guidance counselor Debbie Pultz. Mrs. Pultz doesn’t get a comfortable bed and squeaky toys, though.

Last week, the dog arrived and went through training with Mrs. Pultz and Principal Kevin Parkins. Monday was Violet’s first day on the job at the Oregon school, which has prekindergarten through high school grades.

Assistance Dogs for Achieving Independence donated the dog to the school. The Sylvania nonprofit trains and places assistance dogs with people who need them. The group sometimes gives dogs to schools too, and Violet was more fitting for a school.

It didn’t take her long to become popular as seniors Abbie Reichert, Jettie Moore, and Lizzie Smith gathered around her Tuesday, petting and chatting with her.

School officials were glad to see students happy to chat with the dog.

“Some students with parent issues may feel lonely and don’t feel comfortable to talk or love,” Mrs. Pultz said. “They can work with Violet and sit and talk it out.”

When the staff heads home, Violet jumps in the car with Mr. Parkins, her caretaker. Mr. Parkins has two children at home and another dog, all of whom have been adjusting to Violet.

Violet’s training began when she was 10 weeks old. She also has two brothers who work as service dogs.

“I already take my daughter to school, taking a dog too the car is getting a little full,” Mr. Parkins joked. But he’s excited about what he thinks it’ll give the students. “[Violet] has a great ability to seek those who need it.”

Mr. Parkins estimated costs for training the dogs at around $20,000. He said the school is grateful for the donation from Assistance Dogs for Achieving Independence.

Students were also extremely excited as Violet, the new celebrity, made her way into classrooms to introduce herself. And Mrs. Pultz doesn’t mind taking her to the courtyard twice a day for exercise and potty. She expects the newest staff member to be very beneficial in her counseling.

Contact Matt Thompson at: mthompson@theblade.com, 419-356-8786, or on Twitter at @mthompson25.

First Published November 19, 2015, 5:00 a.m.