Are Therapy Dogs in School Beneficial for Student Well-being and Academic Success?

 

While writing this, my 15-year-old Pomeranian, Winnie, is on my lap, gently tapping my arm whenever I try to type a few words. Winnie would have nipped at my wife if she were in my place. We got Winnie during the pandemic, and not only did she bond with me, but it was at the expense of others. She would not do well in a school environment! Winnie is shown below in one of her better moments.

We have been seeing an increase in therapy animals, particularly dogs, in schools. Their presence is associated with numerous benefits for student well-being and academic success. Both research and anecdotal evidence suggest that therapy dogs can significantly enhance students’ school experiences.

Therapy dogs are known to provide emotional support, which can be crucial for students facing academic and personal challenges. Students often encounter stressful situations, and their emotional well-being improves when therapy animals are present.

They serve as a calming presence, helping to alleviate anxiety and stress, which are common among students in rigorous academic programs.

Additionally, therapy dogs have been linked to improvements in students’ mood and affect. Studies indicate that university students, who often report high levels of stress and mental health issues, experience notable improvements in their mental health functioning when therapy dogs are part of their campus environment. The dogs provide a non-judgmental and comforting presence that helps students feel more at ease and supported.

Beyond emotional benefits, therapy dogs can also contribute to academic success. Schools implementing therapy dog programs have reported reduced stress and anxiety levels among students and staff. This reduction can lead to a more conducive learning environment, as students can better focus and engage with their studies when they are not overwhelmed by anxiety.

Therapy dogs may also enhance students’ social interactions and communication skills. The presence of a therapy dog can encourage students to engage more with their peers and teachers, fostering a sense of community and belonging within the school. This social aspect is particularly beneficial for students who may struggle with social anxiety or isolation.

While the benefits of therapy dogs in schools are significant, potential challenges, such as allergies and school policies regarding animals, must be considered. Schools must carefully plan and implement therapy dog programs to ensure they are safe and beneficial for all students.

Therapy dogs offer a unique and valuable resource for enhancing student well-being and academic success. Their ability to provide emotional support, reduce stress, and foster social connections makes them an asset in educational settings. As schools continue exploring innovative ways to support their students, therapy dogs will likely play an increasingly important role in creating nurturing and effective learning environments.