On Thursday afternoons, as students make their way to the DiMenna-Nyselius Library, there is a special presence that never fails to bring a smile to their faces—Dakota, Fairfield University’s therapy dog, whose smile is as big as her heart.
For nearly a decade, 10-year-old Dakota Pomarico has been the heart of the university’s wellness program, greeting students, staff and faculty wherever she goes. But what is even more remarkable is the deep bond she shares with Carole Pomarico, her beloved owner and companion.
Carole Pomarico has always been dedicated to helping others. After teaching nursing and pediatrics at the Egan School of Nursing, Pomarico retired in Aug. 2022, leaving behind a legacy of hope and kindness to the world.
Dakota—a mixed breed of spaniel, boxer and a little retriever—was just seven months old when Pomarico adopted her from Georgia in Jan. 2015. Though she has had many dogs throughout her life, Pomarico instantly knew that Dakota was special.
Pomarico brought Dakota to campus in July 2015, after she got permission from Dean Meredith Kazer of the School of Nursing. She quickly became certified as a therapy dog, through Griffin Hospital in Derby, Conn. While she had to go through testing to become an official therapy dog, Dakota never had to go to puppy school. Pomarico described her as a natural, explaining that, “this dog never needed to be taught anything, she always knew what to do.”
Pomarico remembers Dakota’s first day on campus as memorable and long-lasting. She recalls Dakota stepping off the elevator in Egan and finding her way into a third-floor classroom, where Dakota immediately walked up to each student, greeting everyone with a friendly nuzzle. Pomarico explains that Dakota knew exactly what to do like she had been training for this her whole life.
Dakota’s gentle demeanor and calmness are what resonates so well with Fairfield University staff and students. Her ability to bring such happiness and warmth whenever she goes is such a gift, Pomarico explains, “In this world, we have so much turmoil, Dakota brings a lot of joy.”
Every other Thursday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.., Dakota and Pomarico come to the Fairfield U Wellness Therapy Dog Session, where they sit outside the library and greet students.
In addition to her library therapy sessions, Dakota participates in any events Fairfield U Wellness asks her to be a part of. She is often requested for special events and private visits with students. Pomarico tries to bring Dakota to campus as much as she can, often interacting with Egan School of Nursing students.
Sophomore nursing student Mary Dilorio loves to visit Dakota whenever she can. With such long days and hard classes, Dilorio explained, “When I see Dakota it is a bit of a relief.” She finds herself smiling whenever she gets to see Dakota and the same can be said for a lot of students on campus.
Dakota’s whole life has been dedicated to giving back to students and bringing joy. A particularly difficult time for Pomarico and Dakota was when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As the campus emptied with everyone locked down in their homes, Dakota was left feeling sad and lonely. The first time she went to visit campus, Pomarico noticed Dakotas’ demeanor change. They walked into Egan together and when Dakota realized no one was there to greet, “she became so sad.” Pomarico recalls that it got to a point where Dakota would not even enter the building, it was too hard for her with no one there.
When the lockdown restrictions became less severe and campus started to fill up, Dakota was the first one to greet everyone. Pomarcio explained that they would have students use hand sanitizer before they pet Dakota. Finally, she was her loving, joyous self again.
Dakota’s presence on campus is more than just a feel-good moment; it’s a vital part of the Fairfield U Wellness program. Pomarico has expressed interest in expanding the pet therapy program and bringing more dogs to campus. She has seen the love and affection that Dakota brings and wants to bring more to the community.
Pomarico, who has spent so much time teaching and helping others has a simple yet powerful message for the Fairfield community: “Stop and appreciate the moment, take a nice deep breath and savor every moment you have. “
Dakota embodies this message with her ability to bring people together and heal. As Pomarico reflects on her bond with Dakota, she is reminded of everything she has learned throughout the years. She explains that Dakota is her companion, her partner and they have been through so much together. “She is so sweet and dependable and she brings calmness and joy to my life,” Pomarico says.
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