August 11, 2014 - Universal Technical Institute Honors a Special Four-Legged Graduate
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Graduation is always a special time for graduates and their families but on Friday, July 25, 2014, the graduating class of Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Houston also included a four-legged classmate. Thor, an American Stafford Terrier, walked across the stage with his owner, Army Veteran Kolby Thompson, as he graduated from UTI’s Auto/Diesel and Industrial program. Like his owner, Thor wore a cap and gown and was presented a special certificate for the impact he’s had on Thompson.
“We’re proud to have veterans on our campus because we are a part of helping them move forward after they have served our country.” Darrin Brust, UTI Houston’s campus president, says. “We have enjoyed seeing both of them succeed so it only seemed right that Thor walk across the stage with Kolby.”
Thompson is a graduate of Clear Creek High School who now lives in Humble, Texas. He proudly served his country for eight years in Iraq, Afghanistan, Korea, Kuwait, Fort Bragg and Fort Bliss. Unfortunately like many veterans, Thompson now lives with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), an anxiety disorder brought on by combat exposure. PTSD occurs in 11-20 percent of veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan war, according to Veterans Affairs (VA). The average person who suffers from PTSD has an unwavering feeling that their life is in constant danger. It can cause them to feel afraid or feel as if they do not have control over what is happening around them.
Thompson rescued Thor in El Paso, Texas about three years ago. After he medically retired from the military, Thompson chose Thor to become his service companion because of their strong bond. Courageous and strong, American Staffordshire Terriers are known for their athletic build and intelligence and can be trained to be a dependable, calm and steady companion. When Thompson is on the verge of an anxiety attack or flashback, Thor will immediately respond and help him return to reality. Service dogs like Thor provide their owner with a sense of security and physical exercise that can make a positive difference in the daily tasks of those who suffer the anxiety disorder.
“If I were to leave his side or be out of his sight, he will look for me,” Thompson explains. “He is my partner in crime. I wouldn’t know what to do without him.”
Thor’s responsibilities exceed the role of man’s best friend. Because of the support and assistance he provides, Thompson completed his education and looks forward to continuing his training in the Cummins program at UTI-Houston.
