ĀKI'S GOOD THERAPY

'Students feel he cares and sometimes it's easier to feel that from an animal'

- Kasia Jillings

When rescued greyhound Aki joined Pip Speedy's life, there were many new and over-whelming things to get used to, like his first time inside a house and car, and the first trip to the beach. But very quickly Aki was loving life as a pet and ready to tackle the next big milestone, his first day at work as a therapy dog with high school counsellor Pip.

"He's a great buddy and a great friend, but as a counsellor seeing the impact a dog can have in that environment is the biggest thing for me," says Pip, who works at Auckland's Örewa College. "I watch a lot of students come to counselling nervous and unsure, but when they interact with Aki or pat him, it's naturally calming and a great way to settle in."

The helpful hound has been so effective at supporting students, Pip regularly finds herself taking cues from him. "He's very good with tears," she explains. "Students feel he cares and sometimes it's easier to feel that from an animal than a human. It's a vulnerable space and animals can make you feel safer, so I often follow Āki's lead."

Formerly known by his racing name, All Day Long, Pip, 42, adopted Âki through the organisation Greyhounds As Pets, which is devoted to avoiding unnecessary euthanasia by rehoming ex-racing dogs.