Anyone who has cared for a dog knows what a soothing presence they can have. They have an uncanny sixth sense about what to do when we’re upset and never fail to restore a smile to our faces.

For this reason, dogs also make incredible therapy animals for people. Trained therapy dogs can provide assistance to those with hearing or vision impairment, as well as mobility issues. Dogs can also provide emotional support for people going through difficult situations, whether they’re suffering from anxiety after a traumatic experience, serving as a witness in court, or enduring other difficult and emotional changes in life. The relationships are mutually beneficial too and often open up people’s eyes to the amazing abilities of animals.

Stafford High School in Falmouth, Virginia is certainly aware of the amazing abilities of therapy animals. The high school has included a student’s service dog, Alpha, in their yearbook, proudly next to her human, Andrew Schalk!

When senior Diana Bloom received her yearbook, she noticed among all of the students … there was sweet Alpha! Bloom tweeted a photo of Alpha’s recognition and the story has since gone viral, with thousands loving the pup’s adorable headshot!

16-year-old Schalk has Type 1 Diabetes and when his blood sugar gets too low or too high, Alpha is there to let him know. “The amazing thing about Alpha is that he knows 20 to 40 minutes before my blood sugar actually does go low or high due to his amazing sense of smell,” Schalk said. Multiple times Alpha has woken AJ up in the middle of the night to let him know his blood sugar levels have dipped. Alpha has become a school favorite, so it’s no surprise that she’d be included in the yearbook as well. Good job, Alpha!

With the recent story of a woman who amazingly made a matching prom outfit for her Dachshund, as well as the of story of a man who got professional photos taken with his cat (seriously, go look at the photos, they are amazing!), we are thrilled the many inspiring and unique ways people are honoring their beloved companions. Be sure to share this touching story with all of the dog lovers in your life!

Image Source: Diana Bloom/Twitter