Storm our Well-being Dog
Why have a School Well-being Dog?
There are many benefits to having a well-being dog in a school setting, the main one being the health and well-being of both pupils and staff alike. A dog has an immediate calming effect by just being near. Storm is calm, affectionate and very gentle natured. She is a much loved staff member now and an integral part of the Cippenham School family.
Benefits of Well-being Dogs
teach empathy and appropriate interpersonal skills
help individuals develop social skills
be soothing and the presence of animals can more quickly build rapport between the teacher and pupil, and improve individual’s skills to pick up social cues imperative to human relationships.
Research into the effects of well-being dogs in schools is showing a range of benefits including:
increase in school attendance
gains in confidence
decreases in learner anxiety behaviours resulting in improved learning outcomes, such as increases in reading and writing levels
positive changes towards learning and improved motivation, and enhanced relationships with peers and teachers due to experiencing trust and unconditional love from a therapy dog. This in turn helps pupils learn how to express their feelings and enter into more trusting relationships.
Storm will continue her regular visits, coming in once or twice a week to spend time with the children and staff. She is known for her wagging tail, and the more excited she is, the more her wags. Storm is continuing her training as a therapy dog and is an incredibly calming but enjoyable experience for the children.
If your child is worried by having Storm in school, please let us know and we can ensure that Storm is kept away.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What if my child is allergic to dogs?
It is understandable that some parents/carers may be concerned about possible allergic reactions to a school dog. Storm is subjected to the most thorough cleanliness and grooming regime. She will only be in contact with children who voluntarily wish to work/play with her.
What if my child is scared of dogs?
Some children may have had upsetting experiences and have a fear of dogs (or another animal). Experience and research has shown that, with proper guidance and handling, children can learn to overcome their fear of animals and grow in respect and appreciation for them. We have already had this happen with parents and children at our school. Parents have the right to ask that their child/children do not have contact with Storm, but equally the child may like to meet them with the parents present. This can be arranged with Mrs Virk.
Is the dog properly cared for?
Storm is extremely well looked after. Storm lives with Mrs Virk and her family. The days Storm is not at school she is at Doggy Day Care. Storm comes into once a week but sometimes twice if the children have requested her to do so for a special event. Storm will always be accompanied by a trained adult. Whilst Storm is in school she will have access to a dog bed and very comfy chairs in Mrs Virk and the Pastoral office. This is where she can rest and have quiet time. Storm does visit the vet regularly for all her treatments as well as regular check ups. If Storm is not well, Storm stays and home to rest.
Will the school still have a 'no dogs' policy?
Yes. Our school continues with a ‘no dogs’ policy. Attending school dogs/therapy dogs do not fall within the remit of this policy as they are subject to rules as part of our risk assessment. Storm will be on a lead at all times when away from Mrs Virk, near children moving around the school site. Storm will always be accompanied by a trained adult. We will make sure that Storm does not leave any mess in or around our school.