Meet Miss B: Reporting for Duty (and Belly Rubs)

Get ready to meet the most fetching new member of the West Valley-Mission Community College District: Miss B, our therapy dog! 

Beatrice, better known as Miss B, is a trained crisis and therapy K9 who works alongside her handler, district police Captain Jorge Gutierrez, serving the West Valley College and Mission College communities. Miss B joined the district’s Public Safety team this spring as one of a small number of therapy dogs serving California community college districts.

A mixed-breed Bernedoodle, Miss B brings plenty of personality to the job. Friendly and intelligent, she’s continuing to learn the ropes as she settles into her important new role.  

“Miss B gives us another way to connect with our students and campus community, especially during moments when someone may be feeling stressed or overwhelmed,” said Gutierrez. “The goal is for her to provide a calming presence and help create positive connections with the people we serve.” 

Her extensive training, provided through the Paw Platoon Placement Program and Heart 4 Heroes USA — organizations that support first responders’ wellness with therapy animals —  began when she was several weeks old and will continue throughout her career.  Research shows that petting and interacting with animals helps release chemicals in our bodies that boost moods, promote calm, and bring a sense of joy. 

Rough study day? Test anxiety kicking in? Or maybe you could just use a friendly face and a nose boop? Miss B is ready to serve and soothe. 

You’ll find Miss B out and about on the West Valley campus throughout the semester with Captain Jorge, getting to know the community. She’ll pull some extra patrol duty during finals and other high-stress times throughout the academic year, when a little tail-wagging, four-legged support can go a long way. 

Spot Miss B and Captain Jorge on a campus stroll? Stop by, say hello and shake paws. And be sure to check out some of Miss B’s upcoming West Valley campus appearances and events below. Welcome to the Viking family, Miss B!