Wellbeing Dog
At St Thomas More’s we are committed to promoting the wellbeing of all our students. To enhance the current pastoral supports offered within the school, a Wellbeing Dog initiative will be introduced and implemented over this year. Our Wellbeing Dog initiative is designed to assist students and staff with their daily mental health needs. In particular, the Wellbeing Dog initiative aims to:
- Provide companionship, comfort and support to young people who are experiencing high levels of distress
- Promote healing and wellbeing
- Teach and develop empathy and appropriate interpersonal skills
- Help students develop social skills
- Assist students in regulating emotions
- Model caring and healthy relationships
|
Meet Annie! Annie is Mr. Donnelly’s 3-year-old cocker spaniel. Over Term 1, Annie will be completing her school induction program and will slowly be introduced to students. Annie loves pats and cuddles. She has a very gentle nature and will give you a lot of love and attention when you meet her. She is a very calm dog that settles easily into any environment. Annie is very cute (see photo) and has an extremely sweet personality. If you are having a bad day, Annie will make you smile! No student is ever forced to work with Annie, and we respect that some people do not like or are allergic to the dogs. Annie will always be in a harness, with a handler and will not be present where food is. We would ask parents to inform the school within the next two weeks of any student dog allergies, fears and/or phobias so that these can be considered before Annie commences her visit. |
 |