Clark College celebrated a very special birthday on April 3 as students, staff, and faculty gathered in the Basic Needs Hub to honor Oso, the campus’s beloved therapy dog, on his fourth birthday.

Party hats, dog videos, gifts, and donations of pet food filled the room—as Oso soaked up the love. The celebration was organized by Oso’s favorite person, Basic Needs Navigator Caitlin Malvar, who invited the campus community with this message:

“One of the best days of the year is soon approaching! Our furry colleague, Oso, is turning 4! Please join us April 3 from noon to 1 p.m. to celebrate! Oso’s birthday wish is to host a pet food and toy drive for our students who have pets in need! Please feel free to bring unopened pet food and toys to the party. All donations will be distributed to students in the Basic Needs Hub and Penguin Pantry.”

The party not only celebrated a cherished campus companion but also supported Clark students and their pets—just the kind of gift Oso would have wished for. The Clark community donated more than 50 items: packages of dog and cat food, plus pet toys.

In addition, Oso eagerly tore open his own gifts—much like any four-year-old would. He latched onto a special red stuffie dog—and wouldn’t let it go.

Malvar said: “I want to thank the Clark community for celebrating Oso with me. But even more important, for supporting our Basic Needs Hub, which is vital to our students.”

Donate Unopened Pet Food

If you didn’t have an opportunity to attend Oso’s birthday party and would like to donate unopened pet food, stop by the Basic Needs Hub and say hello to Oso.

Malvar said, “Oso comes to campus with me most days. But occasionally, he is off on adventures in the woods with his other parent.”

• Basic Needs Hub hours: Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Learn more: https://www.clark.edu/campus-life/student-support/basic-needs/

Photos: Clark College/Susan Parrish