• PETS & ANIMALS

Rescue dog brings joy and comfort to UNC Chapel Hill students

ByAmber Rupinta

Friday, October 3, 2025 2:41PM

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) — Students at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill are finding stress relief and joy thanks to an unlikely campus celebrity, a three-legged golden retriever named Ted.

Ted, a rescue dog adopted through Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue, makes regular visits to campus with his owner, Kristen Ponturiero.

“Ted and I come on campus. We like to come at least once a month,” Ponturiero said.

Before becoming a source of comfort for college students, Ted’s journey began far from North Carolina.

“Ted was actually found as a stray on March 20, 2024, with a compound-like fracture on the streets of Albania. A very kind stranger found him and took him into her care, and was able to get him very good veterinary care. They were unable to save his front left leg. So he did have an amputation over in Albania. But, as you see, he gets along fine,” Ponturiero said.

Despite his rough start, Ted quickly adjusted and showed a natural love for people.

“My husband and I took Ted out to a brewery one night. A woman approached us, and she commented on Ted’s great demeanor and that she thought he would be a great volunteer,” Ponturiero said.

That encounter eventually led them to HAPPEE Hugs and Pups Posse, a group that encourages and empowers college students by offering emotional support – one hug or pup at a time.

Many UNC students say Ted has become an important presence during stressful times on campus.

“I think a lot of students, like, we really need that, especially during a time like this. So if you are stressed about exams, but like seeing a dog, that’s just like a moment to, like, unwind and see another smiling creature,” said student April Chou.

For others, simply seeing Ted is the highlight of their day.

“This is amazing to have on campus. It literally makes my day every time I see a dog on campus. Like, just because we never get to see dogs, because kids here don’t have them in the dorms or have them in their on-campus housing. Absolutely makes my day,” said student Madeleine Bouvette.

Ponturiero says Ted’s resilience makes him even more special.

Continue/Read Original Article Here: Hugs and Pups Posse | Rescue dog brings joy and comfort to UNC Chapel Hill students – ABC11 Raleigh-Durham