School Dog

We are all excited to have Molly the dog at school to support our staff and children holistically and therapeutically.

 

Molly is a Shih Tzu. She is Miss Smith doggy, and she has now passed all her obedience classes... she can sit, lay down, stay, wait and high five plus many more skills and tricks. She has even been learning to read and recognise colours. 

 

Molly has a calm and caring temperament and loves playing, being stroked and having a cuddle. She is hypoallergenic, gentle, exceptionally friendly and loves spending time with people.

 

 

 

  

Molly is training to become a therapy dog with PAWS (People and Animal Wellbeing Services) - the PAWS Therapy Dog Certification is the UK's first comprehensive programme that will equip dogs with everything they need to know and do to deliver safe and effective animal-assisted therapy in school. 

 

What are the benefits of a PAWS Therapy Dog in school?

• Boosts Attendance - studies have shown that young peoples attendance improves when a school dog is present.
• Improves Emotional Understanding - spending time with the dog helps them reflect on their own emotion and behaviours.
• Teaches Empathy - taking care of and understanding the dogs needs, helps them to understand others needs to.
• Nurtures Social Skills - young people are able to show patience, turn taking, team skills and more through the PAWS programme.
• Boosts Academic Progress - academic targets and progress is made when working alongside a school dog.  

 

We would like to thank the LVSPA for their support in funding Molly's training and this invaluable addition to the school which is already boosting wellbeing and providing therapies.