My Canine Companion School Therapy Dog Programme

My Canine Companion introduced Ireland’s first school therapy dog programme, with dogs placed in schools nationwide.

This programme has seen huge success, with our school therapy dogs supporting students, both in SEN settings as well as mainstream settings, nationwide.

We now have 40 dogs placed in schools nationwide, and the programme is expanding quickly.

Schools have enjoyed

·       A greater enjoyment of being in the school environment

·        Improved attendance and a greater willingness to learn and participate.

·        Improved behaviour, social interaction and sense of responsibility.

·       Help with transitioning for children with difficulties in this area.

·       Opportunity to overcome fear of dogs.

·       Use of dog for movement breaks .

·       Improved literacy, in cases where children read to their school dog.

·       Improved staff morale.