Say hello to Daisy, our new School Therapy Dog!
We’re excited to introduce Daisy to the Salesian College Chadstone community! This lovable pup is here to offer emotional support and comfort to students and staff alike. Whether it’s a gentle cuddle to ease anxiety or simply being present to reduce stress, Daisy is already making a positive impact in our school.
The presence of a therapy dog like Daisy can enhance emotional, social, and psychological well-being for everyone at Salesian. From fostering connections among students to providing a calming presence during stressful moments, Daisy’s contributions extend far beyond simple companionship.
Here are some ways Daisy is enhancing wellbeing in our Salesian College Chadstone community:
- Anxiety and Stress Reduction
- School Therapy dogs such as Daisy can help alleviate stress and anxiety. Simply patting or being near Daisy can reduce cortisol (a stress hormone) and increase levels of oxytocin, which promotes feelings of calm and bonding
- Improves Mood
- Interacting with Diasy releases endorphins, the “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, which can help improve mood and alleviate feelings of sadness or depression
- Offers Comfort During Emotional Crises
- In times of crisis or personal trauma, a therapy dog can provide a source of non-judgmental comfort and emotional stability to students who are struggling
- Encourages Social Interaction
- Therapy dogs can serve as social icebreakers, helping students—especially those who are shy, anxious, or introverted—initiate conversations and engage.
- Fosters Empathy and Compassion
- Interacting with therapy dogs can teach students empathy, patience, and compassion, which can improve their relationships with others. –
- Improves Focus and Academic Performance
- A relaxed environment, supported by the presence of a therapy dog, can help students focus better, particularly those with ADHD, anxiety, or emotional regulation difficulties- some schools have dogs walking around during exams
- Promotes Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation
- The presence of a therapy dog can encourage students to practice mindfulness by focusing on the present moment and their connection with the dog. This can help them regulate emotions and manage impulsive behaviors
- Helps with Grief and Trauma
- Therapy dogs can be particularly beneficial for students experiencing grief, trauma, or loss as they offer nonverbal comfort and emotional support
- Special Needs
- Therapy dogs can be especially helpful in engaging students with autism, ADHD, or other developmental challenges. These students may find it easier to interact with the dog than with their peers, helping them develop social and emotional skills
- Student Counselling
- In school counselling sessions, therapy dogs can help create a welcoming environment that encourages students to open up and participate more fully
- Fosters a Sense of Community and enhances Staff Morale
- Having a therapy dog in the school can promote a positive, inclusive atmosphere where students, teachers, and staff feel more connected and supported and feel less stressed
- Acts as a De-escalation Tool
- In situations where a student is agitated or upset, therapy dogs can help de-escalate the situation, providing a calming presence that reduces tension
- Lowers Blood Pressure
- Studies show that interacting with dogs can help lower blood pressure and reduce physical signs of stress, such as heart rate and muscle tension.
