The University of North Georgia has a new therapy provider on campus.
The University of North Georgia (UNG) Public Safety Department welcomed a new and unique addition to its team on Feb. 6—Mavis, a one-year-old black Labrador retriever. Mavis will serve as a crisis intervention therapy dog, making her one of only two in the University System of Georgia (USG) with this specialized role.
Mavis’ handler, Courtney Hause, who serves as the campus victim advocate, had long considered the value a therapy dog could bring to UNG. Her vision has now become a reality, as Mavis is set to provide emotional support and comfort to students, faculty and staff during stressful situations.
“Mavis will complement our existing well-being initiatives by offering emotional support and fostering a sense of calm during times of stress. Her presence aligns with our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff,” Greg Williams, director of public safety and chief of police at UNG, said. “By enhancing community engagement and promoting mental wellness, Mavis will further strengthen the overall safety and security of our campuses. We are eager to see the positive impact she will bring to UNG.”
The introduction of a crisis intervention therapy dog at UNG underscores the university’s dedication to mental health and emotional well-being. Mavis will be available to assist individuals in distress, offering companionship and a calming presence in challenging situations.
As UNG continues to focus on creating a supportive campus atmosphere, Mavis is expected to become an integral part of the university’s community outreach and safety initiatives. Her presence will provide comfort and reassurance, ensuring that students and staff feel supported during difficult moments.
With Mavis now on board, UNG takes another step forward in its mission to foster a safe, secure, and compassionate learning environment.
“The need is to provide more supportive measures for the students and community members that we work with. Campus policing is very different than a sheriff’s office. We’re connected to our community in a very different way,” Hause said. “It is important that there is a supportive and comfortable environment when working with individuals who have been the victim of a serious event.”
The university says Hause began handler training with Scot Rucker of Rucker Training in September 2024, learning essential commands, dog handling, and responsible dog ownership. At the same time, Mavis, a dedicated service dog, participated in Pups With A Purpose, a non-profit initiative by the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, where she also learned obedience and commands.
“Realistically, I had much more to learn than she did,” Hause said. “It’s been a long, extensive training process, and we’ve trained very hard.”
The duo first met in September, and Mavis officially joined Hause at Thanksgiving. By the end of the year, Mavis had successfully completed and passed Canine Good Citizen training, demonstrating her ability to respond to all commands without training aids such as kibble and toys. Hause emphasized that Mavis understands the distinction between work and relaxation: when she wears her harness, she knows she is on duty, but even without it, she remains disciplined.
“We train every single day. Every meal she has, I hand-feed her as part of training,” Hause said. “Toys are also used for training. I can train with a ball, then throw it, and she will retrieve it. It’s how her focus works.”
Mavis is ready to assist whenever needed, provided she is requested.
“The person has to want the dog there. Not everyone likes animals, and that’s OK. But if they do request her, I will bring her,” Hause said.
Together, they form a unique support team—Hause handling practical assistance while Mavis provides emotional comfort.
“My role is to ensure individuals receive the support they need, connecting them with resources and assistance. I can provide direct links to resource referrals and guide them through various systems, whether it be criminal justice, university processes, or external professional agencies that may be a better fit,” Hause said.
One of Mavis’ key roles is helping to foster a sense of trust and openness between the public and law enforcement. Hause believes that Mavis can break down barriers that may make people hesitant to approach officers.
“If Mavis makes even one person feel comfortable enough to report something suspicious to Public Safety, then she’s done her job,” Hause said.
Mavis has already had a noticeable impact, not just on the community but also within her workplace.
“She raises morale in our department,” Hause shared. “I love seeing the impact she has on others. That makes doing this worth it for me. Of course, I love her. She and I have a bond.”
A graduate of the University of North Georgia with a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice in 2022, Hause is dedicated to ensuring that Mavis continues to make a difference in the lives of those around her.
