Pete's Pet Posse

The Pete’s Pet Posse collection is a series of interviews conducted during 2023, the tenth anniversary year of Oklahoma State University’s pet therapy program known as Pete’s Pet Posse, with individuals involved in its creation and success. The program, also known as P3, is recognized nationally and is one of the first of its kind on a university campus.

About the Collection

In 2013 the first class of dogs and their owners, including former First Cowgirl Ann Hargis, were recruited for a trial pet therapy program on the OSU/Stillwater campus. The mission of the program is to add to the well-being of the Cowboy family. Ten years and numerous classes later, Pete’s Pet Posse is now ensconced on campus, has an office in the Student Union, has a statue, and has expanded to other OSU campuses. Pets and their handlers go through a selection and training process before they become official members of the pet therapy program. The program was such a success that a student element, called the Ruff Riders, was added. The P3 trios (handler, Ruff Rider, and dog) appear regularly in various spots on campus, and it is not uncommon to see a cluster of students enjoying the experience of interacting with all three, but especially the pet! This collection includes interviews with people having various roles in its formation as well as in its continual operation.

 

Additional information

Pete’s Pet Posse

https://hr.okstate.edu/pet-therapy/

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Contact Us

Oklahoma Oral History Research Program
207 Edmon Low Library
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
Phone: 405-744-7685
liboh@okstate.edu

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