Meet Winnie: golden retriever, service dog — and the newest member of the University of Northern Iowa marching band. Every halftime, Winnie marches onto the field alongside elementary education major Gabi Riessen and sits loyally beside her while she plays in the band’s front ensemble. Riessen has postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), which causes her to faint without warning. Winnie alerts her when it’s about to happen and protects her when she passes out. Unlike other service dogs, Gabi lets people pet Winnie, who has been basking happily in her newfound fame and attention. According to Panther Marching Band Director Justin Mertz, she’s been a perfect addition to the band, and never has issues when it’s time to learn a new drill. #ipr #iowapublicradio #npr #dogsoftiktok #iowa #marchingband #fyp