TV

CAMPUS K-9

Taffy posing with officers

Villanova’s Department of Public Safety is committed to being community caretakers, prioritizing student safety and connection throughout campus. The new Community Canine program is an integral part of this mission.

Taffy, our first Community Canine, is a female Labrador/Golden Retriever who is helping us connect with Villanova's students, faculty and staff. 

As a working dog, Taffy's job is to bring:

  • Comfort
  • Emotional and mental support
  • A sense of community 
  • Companionship
  • A calming influence

Taffy can be seen strolling through campus, visiting classrooms, participating in events and offering her comforting presence to students during challenging times.

Journey & Training

Taffy's journey began at Paws With a Cause, where she was initially trained as a service dog for 1.5 years. Today, she plays a vital role in the lives of students and staff at Villanova, thanks to the incredible partnership between her handler, Amy Lenahan, and Paws With a Cause.

Paws With a Cause is a renowned nonprofit organization committed to enriching the lives of individuals with disabilities by providing highly trained assistance dogs. Taffy, a spirited canine with boundless enthusiasm, found her calling within the organization where she learned the essential skills to become a remarkable facility dog.

Taffy's transformation from a service dog to a facility dog was a pivotal moment in her journey. Her transition to the "purple program" marked the beginning of a new chapter, one that would lead her to TV.

In March of 2023, Taffy found her forever home with Amy Lenahan, who, as Taffy's handler, would be an integral part of her mission at TV. Amy and Taffy's bond began to grow as they embarked on a 16-week training program, consisting of weekly sessions with a Paws With a Cause professional dog trainer. The goal was to ensure that Taffy and Amy would be perfectly acclimated to their new roles, working in harmony to make a positive impact on the Villanova community.

Officer Debra Patch was also involved in the process, bringing Taffy to Villanova's campus as well as supervising Officer Lenahan and Taffy's training and activities. Other handlers who underwent canine training within the department, including Officer Debra Patch, Sgt. James Simpson and Police Officer Stephanie DiCindio, can also be seen on campus with Taffy.

     

Taffy posing with Father Peter and her owner Amy Lenahan
Taffy laying on the ground being pet

Requesting Taffy for a Visit

Want a friendly face in your classroom, event or gathering? Taffy can make an appearance to bring people together and give them something to talk about.

Fill out the appropriate form and indicate where your event is, the amount of people present and when you want Taffy to arrive.

Taffy looking at the camera
Taffy posing with her owner and a student
Taffy showing off her canine badges
“Sometimes being a college student can be tough. Taffy is an approachable and lovable dog who brings joy with her wherever she goes. In the short time she’s been on campus, she has already made an impact. Students love seeing her and her calming presence immediately boosts spirits.” - Taffy's handler, Officer Lenahan

Emergency
610-519-4444

Non-Emergency
610-519-5800

We are located at Garey Hall at the intersection of Spring Mill Road and County Line Road

Text: NovaPubSafe to 444-999 to download our V-Card

Nova Safe Uses and Benefits