Graci Vlattas, Junior Editor
Quotations and answers to interview questions come from Brady Coppinger but are shifted into the “perspective” of Willy for comedic effect.
With Sparty finishing up and final exams quickly approaching, the Sewanee campus is being pushed into chaos. Stress and anxiety surrounds the students and faculty with tons of work piling up. There is not a lot of reprieve during these last few weeks. But, what brightens up a person’s day more than seeing a cute dog?
The past Canine Chronicles have detailed the lives of dogs owned by professors and the constant routine between teaching and home. However, is it important to see the students’ side of things as well. Though it is more rare, students with pets are all around campus. Emotional support and service animals keep our student body happy and the people around them even happier. The Sewanee Purple interviewed service dog Willy Wonka, a boulder doodle colloquially known as “The Cleveland Dog”, about his role accompanying his owner, Brady Coppinger (C ‘29). Though Willy is quite shy when meeting him off-duty, he still provided us with a lovely interview.
What is your role as a service dog?
“As a service dog for Brady Coppinger here at Sewanee, I help him with PTSD and anxiety. I come with him to classes, watch the door to let him know when someone is coming in, and comfort him when he gets anxious. My favorite way to help is to paw at him or hold his hand,” said Willy.
Being six years old, Willy is incredible at his job. You may have seen Willy around campus with his Sewanee-themed service dog vest or peeked at him during his and Brady’s classes. When on duty, Willy is very vigilant and dedicated to keeping Brady happy and “all good.” Sadly, you cannot pet our lovely Willy when he is on duty in academic buildings and McClurg because he is busy working.
What are your favorite things to do at Sewanee?
“I like to accompany him with his friends, like hanging out at Lake Cheston,” Willy said. “But my all-time favorite thing to do is to sleep.”
Willy is a bit of a lazy dog on his time off duty and maybe a “little dumb.” His routine consists of waking up and trying to fall asleep as fast as humanly (or dogly?) possible. Willy spends his weekends, when he is not working, hanging out in his room at Cleveland Hall. When Brady’s friends sometimes stop by, Willy’s reaction varies; he is skittish around newer faces but affectionate and cuddly with the ones he is familiar with.
Willy said that his favorite place on campus just might be Brady’s roommate’s bed. “I jump on there a lot to cuddle. I know I can’t go on there all the time, but I have decided that I can anyway,” said Willy.
How do you play a part in Sewanee organizations?
“My owner, Brady, is involved in a lot of organizations here at the University, like athletics and Greek life. I have actually been named an honorary member at Chi Psi because of this!” Willy explained. “But when Brady is busy with more time consuming things like varsity sports, people he trusts take care of me when he is not there. We are both very grateful for his roommate, his girlfriend, and his friend Aryan Patel for always looking out for me!”
It is wonderful to know that the organizations and events at Sewanee are excited to accept Willy in. I mean, who wouldn’t love his adorable face!
Is everything worth it?
“Yes!” said Willy. “All of it is worth it.”
The University of Sewanee is a great place for people and their pups; any dog would be content with 13,000 acres to frolic in. But the best part is the people and pets that make everything beneficial for all of us.
If you see Willy around (off-duty of course) compliment him! He definitely deserves it. But according to Brady, if you try to pet him, he may try to run away. He is a bit shy after all.
Stay safe, Sewanee! Go see some dogs!