A Practical Guide to Classroom Dog Therapy Implementation

Cara Zelas | Big World of Little Dude

As educators, we are constantly seeking innovative ways to create engaging and supportive learning environments for our students. One such approach that has gained traction in recent years is the integration of therapy dogs into the classroom setting. This article serves as a practical guide for educators interested in implementing dog therapy programs in their schools. We will begin by exploring the advocacy process, highlighting the benefits of dog therapy backed by current research. Then, we will provide practical tips and strategies for bringing a therapy dog into the classroom and maximizing its impact on student well-being and academic success.

Advocacy: Presenting the Benefits of Dog Therapy to Administration

Before diving into the logistics of implementing a classroom dog therapy program, it is essential to gain support from the school administration. To effectively advocate for this initiative, educators must articulate the numerous benefits that therapy dogs can offer to students, teachers, and the overall school community.

Research demonstrates that interactions with therapy dogs can have a profound impact on student well-being and academic performance. Studies have shown that the presence of therapy dogs in educational settings can reduce stress and anxiety levels among students, promote a sense of calm and relaxation, and enhance social-emotional skills such as empathy and communication (Beetz, 2015). Additionally, therapy dogs have been found to improve attendance rates, increase engagement in learning activities, and even boost academic achievement, particularly in reading skills (Bassette & Taber-Doughty, 2013; Booten, 2011).

When presenting the benefits of dog therapy to school administration, it is crucial to emphasize the evidence-based nature of these findings. Providing administrators with research articles, testimonials from other schools that have implemented similar programs, and data on the positive outcomes associated with therapy dog interventions can help build a compelling case for adoption.

Practical Tips for Classroom Dog Therapy Implementation

Once support from the administration has been secured, educators can begin the process of bringing a therapy dog into the classroom. Here are some practical tips and considerations for successful implementation:

1. Identify a qualified therapy dog team: The first step is to find a certified therapy dog and handler who is trained to work in educational settings. Reach out to local therapy dog organizations or animal-assisted therapy programs to inquire about potential candidates. It is essential to ensure that the dog is well-trained, gentle, and comfortable around children.
2. Establish clear guidelines: Develop a set of guidelines and protocols for the therapy dog’s presence in the classroom. This may include rules for interacting with the dog, scheduling regular visits, and addressing allergies or other concerns among students and staff. Communicate these guidelines to students, parents, and school staff to promote consistency and safety.
3. Plan engaging activities: Incorporate the therapy dog into classroom activities and lessons to maximize its impact on student learning and well-being. For example, the dog can participate in reading sessions where students read aloud to the dog, providing a non-judgmental audience for reluctant readers. Additionally, consider integrating the dog into social-emotional learning activities, such as mindfulness exercises or role-playing scenarios. Therapy dogs can also be included to motivate physical exercise!
4. Foster positive relationships: Encourage students to develop bonds with the therapy dog by allowing them to interact with the dog in a supervised and respectful manner. Facilitate opportunities for students to engage in activities such as grooming, feeding, or walking the dog, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy.
5. Evaluate and adjust: Continuously assess the impact of the therapy dog program on student well-being and academic performance. Gather feedback from students, teachers, and parents to identify areas of strength and areas for improvement. Adjust the program as needed to meet the evolving needs of the classroom community.

Incorporating therapy dogs into the classroom can be a transformative experience for students and educators alike. By advocating for the benefits of dog therapy and implementing practical strategies for success, educators can create inclusive and supportive learning environments that promote student well-being and academic achievement. With careful planning, clear guidelines, and a commitment to fostering positive relationships, classroom dog therapy programs have the potential to unleash the full benefits of animal-assisted interventions in education.

References

Bassette, L. & Taber-Doughty, T. (2013). Effects of animal-assisted therapy on agitated behaviors and social interactions of older adults with dementia. American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias, 28(4), 371–380.

Beetz, A. et al. (2015). The effect of animal-assisted therapy on stress-related parameters in patients undergoing outpatient psychotherapy: A randomized controlled trial. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2015.

Booten, C. (2011). Animal-assisted therapy: Implementation in a therapeutic environment. Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, 28(3), 245–256.

Cara Zelas is an early childhood educator, author and social & emotional learning expert. She received a BMedia, BEducation (Elementary) and AMS-credentialed (Early Childhood). Cara founded Big World of Little Dude, an educational platform teaching children social and emotional skills by providing books and resources for parents and the humanKIND Curriculum for teachers. Little Dude has taught Cara and countless children that being kind to others is contagious.

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