The school dog team comprises a specialist handler and a specially trained activity/therapy dog. They work together to become an integral part of the school team. They soon become a natural part of the school’s daily operating environment.
The school dog and the handler work in partnership with the teaching staff and therapists. This helps everyone to maximise the positive benefits of having a school dog, for students and the wider school environment.
At the start of the project, the handler will consult with teaching staff and therapists to develop a structured timetable and programme of activity. This programme establishes clear goals for activities with students, both working with individuals and in groups. This is a key step to make sure we meet our standards of best practice, for students and the dog. This also gives the handler an opportunity to understand the priorities for individual students, groups and the school community. The programme also gives the team a structure for future progress reviews.
Detailed Areas where a School Dog can be Engaged to Help Students
- Improving concentration, attention and listening
- Play, participation and social interaction
- Speech and other communication
- Reducing anxiety
- Personal care activities eg grooming; personal hygiene etc
- Sensory skills development
- Motor skills development
- Cognitive skills development
- Confidence and self esteem
- Responsibility and respect for others
- Developing independence
- Motivation to attend school or engage in specific learning/activities
- Specific life skills eg road safety
- Improving the effectiveness of therapy sessions
You can click the links to find out more about our School Dog Handlers or about our School Dogs in general. If you would like to apply for a School Dog for your school, please get touch to find out more. You can also download our School Dogs information sheet which you can share with your team.