Numerous research studies have shown the benefits of well-being dogs in schools. Well-being dogs have been working in schools for the past 6 years across the UK. However, they have been commonplace in schools in the USA and Australia for many years. Evidence indicates that benefits include:

Cognitive: companionship with a dog stimulates memory, problem-solving and game-playing. Encouraging expression, participation and shared attention.

Social: a dog provides a positive mutual topic for discussion, encourages responsibility, wellbeing and focused interaction with others. Encouraging respect and thereby improving pupils’ relationships with each other, parents and teachers.

Emotional: a school dog improves self-esteem, acceptance from others and lifts mood, often provoking laughter and fun. Dogs can also teach compassion and respect for other living things as well as relieving anxiety. Improved behaviour, attendance and concentration, reduced stress and improved self-esteem.

Physical: interaction with a furry friend reduces blood pressure, provides tactile stimulation, gives motivation to move and stimulates the senses.

Obviously, bringing any animal into school is not something to be approached lightly, both for the animal’s sake and for the sake of the children and adults in the school. Mr. Hartley has taken advice from fellow Headteachers, who have school dogs and completed risk assessments. Buddy is also fully insured to be in schools.

Buddy’s role in school is varied. He will work with small groups of children or children on an individual basis with his handler (Mrs. K. Jones).

Buddy’s main roles include listening to children read, supporting children who are struggling with their emotional needs and providing fun and enjoyment during playtimes. Dogs give unconditional acceptance, as they are non-judgmental, which is especially crucial to struggling, emerging readers, children who lack confidence when reading aloud or with children who feel overwhelmed. He is an amazing listener, providing the children with a sense of comfort and love.

Buddy spends a proportion of his time in the office areas. He understands where he can go, where he can play, when he needs to be calm and quiet and what he can chew (and what not to chew!). He visits classrooms and will meet and greet our families at the start of the day.

Please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Hartley if you have any concerns or worries or if you would like to meet Buddy yourself.