Team Unity and a Sense of Responsibility
Last season, the Anaheim Ducks had a huge issue getting on the same page. Most of the players had adopted a losing attitude. However, there were a select few who still wanted to win, but their desire to win was overshadowed by the complete lack of accountability and team unity.
Bringing in a team dog would give them all a common goal to work towards. Training a service dog is a hard job, and the Anaheim Ducks wouldn’t necessarily be responsible for all of it, but they would have a big hand in making sure the dog is socialized and learning how to do their job properly.
However, if the team can learn to work towards a common goal off the ice, imagine how that can help them when they’re playing the game. Not only would it promote team unity and give the entire team a sense of responsibility, but it could improve communication and help them understand one another better. A puppy is a lot like a child, and if the Anaheim Ducks learn to work together as equal partners in this exercise, they can implement those same practices on the ice as well.
It could also go a long way in helping specific players on the team. Nick Ritchie could benefit from having the added responsibility. It could aid him in learning how to control his temper. Plus, as mentioned previously, dogs promote the release of endorphins, which could help him become a much more focused and positive person on the ice.
As players like Troy Terry, Brendan Guhle, and Sam Steel take on more responsibility this season as well, having a team dog could help them become better acquainted with their teammates. They got to know them last season, but with a new coach and new ideas, it will help the veterans and the rookies make a smoother transition together.