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How we Care For Schools

The Power of Dog-Assisted Learning in Schools

At Canine Comprehension, we specialise in integrating Therapy Dogs in Schools to support students' mental health and learning. Our School Therapy Dog Programs are designed to foster emotional regulation, social skills development, and overall student engagement through Dog-Assisted Learning.

Our Educational Programs with Therapy Dogs offer a unique approach to improving student well-being. By incorporating Animal-Assisted Education, we create a supportive environment where students can thrive emotionally and academically.

Our programs focus on tailored activities to enhance specific skills and address identified needs. For example:

Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Schools include:

  • Emotional Regulation in Students: Therapy dogs help students manage their emotions, reducing anxiety and stress.
  • Social Skills Development: Interaction with therapy dogs enhances students' social skills, promoting empathy and positive peer relationships.
  • Increased Engagement: The presence of therapy dogs in the classroom boosts student engagement and motivation to learn.

Personalised Attention

  • small group settings 
  • personalised attention
  • building a safe place to share
  • leading to self-discovery & growth

Boosting Confidence and Well-being

Regular attendance in our programs can lead to more positive feelings about school and, most importantly, about themselves. The presence of a therapy dog can make even the most awkward or tough conversations a little easier. By shifting the focus to our furry friends, students often feel less anxious, more in control of their emotions, and may even make some new friends along the way.

Addressing Worries

We provide a safe space for students to discuss their concerns and worries about learning. By opening up, they can start to understand possible triggers and develop strategies for managing them.

Mindfulness Techniques

We teach young people how to stay present, reduce stress, and manage their emotions effectively through mindfulness practices.

Developing Social and Interpersonal Skills

Our programs help students develop essential social skills, manage their emotions, and cultivate empathy for others. These skills are vital for building stronger connections within their learning environment.

Award-Winning Excellence

We take immense pride in our programs' impact over the years. Canine Comprehension has received several awards for our dedication and commitment to supporting students, and we are highly regarded by parents, teachers, and the Department of Education.

 

Implementing Therapy Dog Programs

Learn How Therapy Dogs Improve Student Well-being and how you can implement our programs in your school. Our experienced therapy dog handlers work closely with educators to ensure the seamless integration of therapy dogs into the school environment by booking a chat with one of our dog-assisted therapy experts.

Special Development

Canine Comprehension excels in working with Special Development Schools and children with disabilities, recognising these students' unique challenges in traditional classroom settings. Our Therapy Dogs for Disabilities provide essential support, fostering emotional resilience and social skills.

Impact of Therapy Dogs

Our interactions have been linked to significant improvements in emotional and social skills development. Research consistently highlights the positive impact of Animal-Assisted Therapy on children with disabilities and learning difficulties. We are committed to empowering young people with the skills and tools that foster inner certainty to navigate the world confidently.

School Mental Health Menu to fund our programs

School Mental Health Menu to fund our programs

DET Funding Information:

For more details, visit the DET website.

Funding Tiers:

  • Tier 1: Promoting Positive Mental Health
  • Tier 2: Early Intervention for Specific Cohorts

Type of Intervention:

  • School Programs (Therapy Dogs)

Evidence Strength:

  • Level 3: Foundational and emerging evidence supports the program.

Geographic Availability:

  • Victoria State-wide, including some rural and regional areas.

Intended Outcomes:

  • Enhance student interpersonal and social skills.
  • Improve emotional management in students.
  • Foster better connections within the school environment.

Program Details:

Target Audience:

  • Lower Primary School Students
  • Upper Primary School Students
  • Lower Secondary School Students
  • Upper Secondary School Students
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students
  • LGBTIQ+ Students
  • Asylum Seeker and Refugee Students
  • Students with Disabilities

Implementation Considerations:

Target Population:

  • Students in P-12 who have diverse needs and personalities.

Factors to Consider:

  • Maximum of 10 students per group.
  • A school staff member must be present during each session, either observing or participating.

Letter-From-the-Hon-James-Merlino-MP.pdf Letter-From-the-Hon-James-Merlino-MP.pdf (238kB)