UHart Celebrates Comfort Dog Teddy’s Third Birthday With “Teddies for Teddy”

Teddy marked his third birthday in one of his favorite spots, the Gengras Student Union lawn, accepting belly rubs from members of the campus community. Teddy also collected new "teddies for Teddy." The bears will be donated to Connecticut Children's Medical Center.

Teddy, a Labrador retriever, has become a beloved fixture on the University of Hartford campus since he joined the community in 2023. With his partner, Public Safety Officer Michael Calderon, Teddy responds to mental health calls, visits with students who miss their pets at home, attends events, assists in the counseling center, and provides "moments of Zen" for anyone passing by.

Members of the campus community can schedule time with Teddy whenever they need a canine companion. "We're here for comfort, for wellness, for support," said Calderon. "If they want to talk to us, if they want to spend time with us, we're here for them."

For that commitment to support, Teddy and Officer Calderon were honored recently at the 9th Annual Bark Twain Bash, which recognizes special animals and their friends. The K-9 duo received a Service of Excellence Award for their work with University students and faculty, as well as with surrounding communities. The event benefits Kenway's Cause and the Mark Twain House and Museum.

Many of Teddy's canine friends from law enforcement, public safety, and other organizations came to campus to wish him a happy birthday. Teddy grew up in a corrections institute as part of the Puppies Behind Bars program, which raises service dogs for veterans, first responders, and others.

Inside the student union, dozens of two-legged and four-legged friends gathered to sing "Happy Birthday" and share some cake in Teddy's honor. At the end of a busy work day, Teddy enjoys swimming, napping, carrying sticks, and bonding with Calderon, who takes him home after each shift.