By Peyton Zamarelli '22

“There is no better therapy than having a dog,” stated Gabriela Botzman ’17, the owner of Franklin and daughter of University of Mount Union President Dr. Thomas and Vanessa Botzman. When the Botzman family was welcomed back to the Mount Union campus for the 2020-21 academic school year, they welcomed their very first pet, Franklin, a bichon-poodle mix.

“We never had a family dog before,” shared Gabriela. “The day I met him I knew there was no turning back. It was truly love at first sight.”

After spending four years post-graduation teaching in Wayne, North Carolina, Gabriela returned to the Alliance area to teach third grade at Alliance Elementary and is happy to return to the Mount Union community alongside her parents. 

“He is the best grand-dog,” shared Vanessa. “He loves to play, cuddle, nap, and go on car rides to the drive-thru.”

To say Franklin is enjoying his time at the University is an understatement. He enjoys walking through campus and meeting everyone who passes by. When asked where Franklin’s favorite spot on campus is, Gabriela replied, “Anywhere where the students are, because he truly smiles whenever he sees someone new.”

Franklin has made friends with the AVI catering staff, the Physical Plant staff, and even attended yoga at the Chapel with Vanessa.

If you haven’t met Franklin already, be sure to hang around the quad for some kisses from Mount Union’s finest pup!