School Support Dog Training Newcastle

School Support Dogs are trained therapy dogs that provide emotional and social support to students within educational settings. These dogs help create a positive and calming atmosphere, assisting students in managing stress, anxiety and other emotional challenges.

They can facilitate social interactions, promote a sense of safety and enhance overall well-being. Often, School Support Dogs participate in activities such as reading programs, counseling sessions and support groups making a significant impact on students' mental and emotional health.

To determine if your puppy or dog is suitable as a School Support Dog, you will need
to consider the following:

1. Temperament: Your dog should be calm, friendly and sociable, showing a gentle disposition towards people, especially children.
2. Training: Basic skills training is required. A well-trained School Support Dog should be able to respond to cues and be comfortable in various
   environments.
3. Stability: Your dog should be able to remain calm and relaxed in new situations and are not fearful or anxious around loud noises or groups of
   children/people.
4. Social: Your dog should enjoy interacting with children and people and be comfortable in a school setting.
5. Health: Your dog should be in microchipped, desexed, registered, in good health and up to date on vaccinations

We follow the NSW Department of Education School Support Dog Guidelines

Schools in NSW must follow these guidelines in order to comply with all relevant legislation including the Companion Animals Act, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and Animal Research Act. In addition, schools must meet the requirements of their respective sector in relation to health and safety.

The training for a dog to become a school support dog can take between 6 months to up to 2 years, depending on the dog’s age, temperament and the teams temperament and the teams commitment to training. Consistent training and gradual habituation and desensitization to the school environment is the key to ensuring the dog is comfortable and relaxed in various situations in a school setting.

It’s crucial that your dog is well-suited for the role of a school support dog. Dogs that are coerced or pressured into this work may become fearful or anxious in a school setting, increasing the risk of incidents, such as biting.

Not all dogs enjoy being support animals, which is why it's essential for them to have the right personality and temperament for the job.

Additionally, schools have a responsibility to educate students on how to interact safely with dogs, which should be a top priority when introducing a dog to the school environment.