The rise of wellbeing dogs in Independent schools

Independent Schools Victoria’s latest video series explores the special skills of wellbeing dogs to enhance student learning, engagement and wellbeing.

We visited Korowa Anglican Girls’ School, Girton Grammar School and The King David School to find out how dogs are supporting their school communities.

Getting a pet dog is a big commitment. So too is the decision to bring on a school wellbeing dog. It’s not a decision that schools take lightly, but the rewards are many.

‘When I went about looking at getting Ivy (our wellbeing dog) at school, I was so focused on the students and I really underestimated the positive impact on parents and staff,’ says Shannon Whithouse, Head of Learning Support at Korowa Anglican Girls’ School.

Meet Murphy the Wonderdog – one of several wellbeing pups supporting student engagement at Girton Grammar School. ‘It’s been absolutely wonderful to see the work that he’s doing with all kids, but particularly those who are finding it hard to get to school,’ says Donald Thompson, Head of Junior School at Girton.

Schools considering getting a wellbeing dog should ensure that their pup’s needs come first. This includes:

• giving them time out
• providing a dedicated space away from students, and
• ensuring everyone is aware of the appropriate boundaries.

In the final instalment of our video series on wellbeing dogs, we take a closer look at taking care of your dog’s needs.