Fluffy Rodas

Fluffy is a gentle and intelligent Cavapoo who works as an Animal-Assisted Counseling (AAC) Therapy Dog. He works alongside Lorena Dellanira Rodas, M.Ed., LPC, CSC. Together, they hold a Certified Animal-Assisted Counseling Team Associate (#25-106) from the Animal-Assisted Counseling Academy (AACA) at Texas State University (TSU).

Fluffy was accepted into the AACA after earning the AKC Canine Good Citizen certification. Fluffy and Lorena graduated from AACA upon completing coursework and mastering 18 professional competency skills in the Canine Counseling Team Evaluation, which qualified them for an AAC-supervised practicum. They continue their AAC clinical hours consultation with TSU's AAC Academy through the summer of 2026.

Fluffy has a special ability to sense when someone needs comfort or a gentle reminder to breathe. Some days, he quietly rests nearby, offering calm reassurance. Other times, he joins in to model grounding skills, mindfulness techniques, or moments of simple connection and joy. Whether he’s sitting close by, softly wagging his tail, or curiously gazing, Fluffy helps clients feel safe, seen, and supported.

When he’s not working, Fluffy enjoys outdoor walks, playing with his toys, and spending time with his family, including his canine sister, Crema. He continues to learn and grow in both English and Spanish.

How to Greet Fluffy

If it’s your first time meeting Fluffy, here’s how to help him feel comfortable and relaxed:

• Stand tall and still like a tree.

• Avoid direct eye contact at first—this helps him know you’re calm and safe.

• Keep your arms calmly at your sides.

• Let Fluffy come to you—he’ll sniff to say hello in his own friendly way.

• If he leans in, sits beside you, or lies down next to you, it’s his way of saying, “I trust you.”

Once you’ve met a few times, Fluffy welcomes gentle pets and enjoys quiet companionship during sessions.

Fluffy in the Therapy Room

Fluffy’s calm, loving nature makes him an integral part of the therapeutic environment. He may rest quietly nearby, approach for gentle connection, or participate in grounding and mindfulness activities. Clients are welcome to pet him after the first meeting or allow him to rest close by, whatever feels most comfortable.

Some clients enjoy giving him small treats (please ask first). Once he knows you, he remembers and will often greet you with quiet joy each time you return.

The Heart Behind His Work

Fluffy isn’t just a comforting presence; he plays a meaningful role in the therapeutic process. Research shows that therapy animals can help reduce stress, enhance emotional regulation, and build trust between clients and therapists.

“Animals are such agreeable friends—they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.”

— George Eliot

Understanding Fluffy’s Comforts and Cues

What He Loves:

• Crunchy vegetables and apples

• Going for walks and car rides

• Spending time with his family, especially his canine sister, Crema

What He Prefers to Avoid:

• Being petted directly over his head

• Touching his paws or underbelly

How You Know He’s Happy:

• Soft eyes

• Relaxed body

• Open mouth

• Wagging tail

How You Know He’s Uncomfortable:

• Closed mouth

• Still body

• Walks away

• Lowers his tail