In 2017, Hurricane Harvey roared through Texas, leaving a path of devastation. A week later, Hurricane Irma struck land on the Caribbean island of Barbuda and threatened Florida. Jessica Lewis decided to evacuate her college town and head to her family home in Atlanta. All but one of Jessica’s classes were canceled in anticipation of the storm. Jessica and her puppy Luna planned to head out after this class.
The Request
With the storm fast approaching, Jessica needed to leave quickly. She decided Luna attending class would minimize delays and avid traffic. She decided to ask her professor for consent to bring Luna.
Lewis was unsure how Dr. Kennedy would react to a dog in class. She explained her situation in an email. This request begged for permission. Jessica added pictures too. Jessica hoped Luna’s pretty face would help gain approval as a student for a day.
After sending the email, Lewis anxiously awaited a response. Obviously, Dr. Kennedy has a sense of humor and honor with the email response.
She felt a weight lift from her shoulders as she read the email. Admittedly ceasing the teaching moment, Kennedy’s response was ideal. “Did you think calling me ‘cool’ would get me to say yes because it won’t work? What will work is that she’s obviously a good girl, so of course you can bring her.” Jessica was surprised and elated to learn Luna could attend class.
Class In Session
Clearly, Dr. Kennedy is a big dog lover as he happily welcomed Luna to his class. No one in the class minded Luna’s presence. She was a well-behaved, attentive student for 75 minutes.
Lewis commented to The Dodo that Luna did well in class. Luna when directly to whoever was taking, like if someone answered or asked a question. Also, she walked around and got pets from everyone. Luna found new friends.
Jessica added a funny aside. “Every time the professor stopped and asked if anyone had questions or comments, she whined loudly like she was responding. It was hilarious.”
Luna was slightly distracting during class; no one minded. The students and, especially Dr. Kennedy, loved having her attend class. He laughed along with everyone else when Lana did something amusing.
Success
Lewis was thrilled that her professor had no complaints. Luna enjoyed attending class as much as they wanted her presence. Consequently, when Jessica and Luna headed out toward their home in Atlanta, they were a little sad.
Due to an understanding professor, the pair evacuated promptly and arrived safely home.