The Dallas Mavericks made NBA history when they became the first NBA team to have an emotional support animal.
The Mavs added Bailey, a 2-year-old mini-doodle of Berna, to help keep the team’s stress levels low as they head into the playoffs.
Assistant athletic trainer Heather Mau is Bailey’s owner and spoke to WFAA about what the young pup brings to the organization.
“She brings me so much joy,” Mau said, “You bring a cute little dog into this building, all these men here will melt.”
Mavs officials, including head coach Jason Kidd, agreed to use Bailey and center Dwight Powell explained how she could help the players.
“I think it lightens the mood without taking away from the seriousness of what we do,” Powell said.
The Mavs improved to 38-28 this season and are currently riding a four-game winning streak and are the Seed No. 8 in the Western Conference.
Dallas tries to come back to the playoffs after missing last year’s playoffs.
