PETE'S PET POSSE
Oklahoma State University's
beloved pet therapy program was founded in 2013 as a vision of former First Cowgirl
Ann Hargis.
The nation’s most comprehensive university based pet therapy program, our mission
is to enhance the well-being of the Cowboy family through professionally trained and
nationally certified pet therapy teams, in collaboration with campus resources and
generous supporters. Utilizing teams of dedicated volunteer handlers to impact our
OSU community, we create moments of joy, reduce stress, and build bonds that embody
the Cowboy spirit. Learn more about Pete’s Pet Posse and discover the power of pawsitivity!
Apply for Pete's Pet Posse
Class 13 applications are now open
Ready to join Pete's Pet Posse? Woof! Applications are open through Sept. 30.
Applications are available to OSU faculty and staff, OSU alumni, retirees and former Pete’s Pet Posse handlers who
left the university and program in good standing. Employees on campus are encouraged
to apply and are given preference, as pet therapy dogs are expected to serve regularly in their campus offices.
Graduate students may be considered, though priority will be given to faculty and staff applicants.
All applicants must demonstrate the ability to maintain a consistent and meaningful
presence on campus and a willingness to serve the campus community.
OSU Pet Therapy Fund
Pete's Pet Posse is a self-funded program. Support from private donors supplies our
pet therapy teams with a variety of needs to be successful. From our orange tartan
vests to leashes and trading cards, the Pete's Pet Posse Program is made possible
through your support.
Every dollar the program receives makes a difference in the lives of students, faculty,
staff and visitors at Oklahoma State University.
Nearly 90 pet therapy teams serve our university system-wide and more teams are added
each year.
Research is playing a vital role
in understanding the impact pet therapy has in our community
The P3 research committee was formed to dive deeper into understanding the impacts
of pet therapy. Our therapy teams have been providing support for the OSU and Stillwater
communities for 10 years.
In loving memory of Scruff
Scruff Hargis, the fur-child of former OSU President Burns Hargis and First Cowgirl
Ann, was a member of the first Pete's Pet Posse class of therapy dogs. Scruff's demeanor
and sweet personality served as a launching pad for the pet therapy program and his
legacy is living on with each class of pups trained to join in on the mission.
2023 a celebration of 10 years
of Pete's Pet Posse
In 2023, Pete’s Pet Posse reached a remarkable milestone: 10 years of pet therapy
at OSU. Throughout the year, we commemorated this achievement with a diverse array
of celebratory events, all leading up to the unforgettable Cowboys, Canines, and Cocktails.
Activities and Merchandise
Take a piece of your favorite pet therapy program wherever you go!
Activities like coloring books and word searches are now available. Grab your limited
edition Pete's Pet Posse tee from Eskimo Joes!
STAY IN TOUCH
The Center for Pet Therapy is open daily from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. in room 224 of the Student Union. Reach us by email at the button below or call 405-744-PUPS (7877).
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