College, Crowds, and Canines: How One Student Socializes Service Dogs in the World of Sports

Maren is a college student who wears many hats—full-time classes at Troy University, two part-time jobs, and a volunteer role that just might be her favorite: socializing service dogs in training. And not just one. She’s helped raised four and is currently on number five.

What makes her story stand out even more? She’s done it all while working in high-energy, high-volume environments like sports stadiums and college athletic departments.

"I work for two sports organizations—Troy University Athletics and the Montgomery Biscuits, the Double-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays," she explained. "These are pretty high-paced and ever-changing workplaces, and they can be very eye-opening for pups."

From courtside to campus life -

Maren and her first pup, Kenadee, learning the art of teamwork.

Maren has learned that when it comes to acclimating dogs to chaotic environments, it’s all about pacing and patience. "The key to getting my pups adjusted is taking things slow and rewarding every milestone we cross, even if it seems small. And lots of treats and kibbies, of course!"

Her dogs have faced everything from blaring music and buzzing scoreboards to the roar of cheering fans and the unmistakable sound of a train horn that rattles Riverwalk Stadium. It’s not your average training ground, but it’s a perfect one.

Pres box pro -

Indy takes in the sights and sounds of game day from the best seat in the house.

One of her proudest moments came when her pup, Klaus, learned to stay put calmly under her desk—even when she had to step away. "If I had to make a quick copy or pop into someone’s office, he wouldn’t squirm or run off. He would patiently watch and wait. A super cool behavior for a pup to learn and exhibit at his age."

Maren also sees the effect the dogs have on the people around her. "Even though they can’t be petted like regular dogs, just having them nearby brings such light to a sometimes very stressful workplace. Honestly, my coworkers get more excited to see the pup than to see me!"

What has she learned from the experience? "Bringing a service dog in training to work has taught me that adaptability and patience are just as important for a dog’s success as obedience and training. In fast-paced environments, every new sound, smell, or interaction is a learning moment."

Game face meets puppy face -

Maren and Ivan representing teamwork, heart, and a little school spirit for homecoming.

Her dogs are treated like teammates in their own right—learning to stay composed under pressure and support others even when the world gets loud. "Like the many athletes we work with, my pups bring consistency, heart, and a whole lot of patience to the field—even when the train horn blares or the crowd roars."

Think college life is too busy to raise a dog? Think again.

Big smiles for small paws -

every future service dog starts with moments like this.

Whether it’s walking across campus or standing on the sidelines, Maren proves that young volunteers with full schedules can still help train the next generation of life-changing service dogs.

Ready to be part of the team? Contact Service Dogs Alabama to learn how you can help raise a dog that will change someone’s life.