Since 2019, Winston has provided emotional support to both students and staff across the district.
SAN DIEGO — San Diego Unified School District is gearing up for the return of students next week, and one special member of the team is also preparing: Winston, an eight-year-old golden retriever who serves as a licensed facility dog. Since 2019, Winston has provided emotional support to both students and staff across the district, lifting spirits and offering comfort during challenging times.
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Owner Eri Nall, who is also the district’s head counselor, introduced Winston into her work after he completed a two-year training program to become certified. “Oh my gosh, [Winston brings smiles to] not just the students but adults. It’s amazing. It just lights up,” Nall said. Unlike therapy dogs, facility dogs like Winston are trained longer, work full-time alongside professionals, and have legal access to various facilities, making their impact even broader.
Winston is a familiar face at San Diego High School every week and visits Linda Vista Elementary every other week. He is also called upon during critical incidents to support the community, including responses to tragedies like deaths and natural disasters. For example, he responded to schools impacted by the 2024 floods, as well as a plane crash in Tierrasanta last year. Nall emphasized Winston’s presence during everyday school life: “We want students to get to know Winston during normal times as well. He’s here to make your day better, not just during sad times.”
Supporting student well-being is a significant focus for the San Diego Unified School District, which has expanded wellness centers and calming spaces throughout its campuses. Winston plays a crucial role in this effort, which Nall describes as encompassing both mental and physical health.
Winston is not alone in his role; there are 20 facility dogs within the district that remain on-site at their assigned schools. Next year, another facility dog named Charlie, an 11-month-old English yellow lab, will join the team. He happens to be Nall’s second dog, otherwise known as Winston’s little brother. “Winston’s eight, so he’ll probably retire like in a couple of years. So when Charlie becomes official, they’ll have about one year overlap, and Charlie will completely take over,” Nall explained.
With school just around the corner, Winston and his colleagues are poised to continue their important work in fostering a healthy, supportive school environment for both students and staff alike.