ETSU Public Safety’s therapy dog Pepper celebrated her third birthday on March 22 with friends, cake and a promotion.
Pepper’s owner, Officer Bill Mitchell, threw Pepper a birthday party outside of Starbucks in the D.P. Culp Student Center. Pepper got her own dog friendly cake to share with other dog friends, and students got their own human-friendly cake along with cheese, fruit and water.
“I announced the party pretty well,” said Mitchell.
Pepper got her biggest birthday surprise when ETSU Chief of Police Caesar Garcia promoted her to the rank of sergeant in front of all her party attendees. Mitchell said he was very excited to see Pepper get promoted.
Pepper is a popular face across campus, and over 30 human guests showed up to celebrate at her birthday party. Alongside the humans, three dogs came to celebrate at Pepper’s birthday bash.
“I just love pitbulls, and she’s a mix, but I wanted to come and show my love and support for her because she is so sweet and adorable,” said student Natalee Babb.
Many college students and staff say Pepper helps them overcome stress and homesickness they might feel while they are at ETSU and that Pepper has also become a friend to a lot of students – as well those who do not get to see their own dogs as much.
“We love Pepper,” said ETSU student Makenzie Smith. “She’s my favorite dog, and I have dogs, but I’m a little biased with Pepper since she is our therapy dog and school dog. We wanted to come and show our support for her.”
To keep up with Pepper and her adventures on campus, follow her on Instagram at @pepper_etsu.
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