BIRDIE
Research has shown that therapy dogs support psychological and academic growth while increasing social skills and self-esteem in children and adolescents. Therapy dogs have been trained to provide emotional support which positively impacts reading skills, emotional functioning and communication skills. In addition, the use of therapy dogs is known to decrease anxiety, improve self-esteem and increase overall academic achievement in students.
- Positive presence within school
- Support students who are having a hard day or working through grief, anxiety, and life changes
- Support students in a group counseling experience
- Read/work with reluctant readers/learners
- At times, there may also be opportunities for Birdie to meet and interact with students in the classroom setting.
- Birdie will be under the supervision and control of her handler at all times.
- Birdie will be kept on a leash at all times
- Birdie will never be left alone with students
- Birdie will only interact upon student interaction and with permission
- Birdie will have a designated “Safe Spot” for rest breaks
- Birdie will be well-groomed, regularly bathed and kept up to date with all vaccinations.
If a student is allergic to or uncomfortable with dogs please complete the form below. We will work cooperatively with our school nurse, administration, parents and guardians to accommodate each individual students’ needs.
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Research has shown that therapy dogs support psychological and academic growth while increasing social skills and self-esteem in children and adolescents. Therapy dogs have been trained to provide emotional support which positively impacts reading skills, emotional functioning and communication skills. In addition, the use of therapy dogs is known to decrease anxiety, improve self-esteem and increase overall academic achievement in students.
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- Positive presence within school
- Support students who are having a hard day or working through grief, anxiety, and life changes
- Support students in a group counseling experience
- Read/work with reluctant readers/learners
- At times, there may also be opportunities for Birdie to meet and interact with students in the classroom setting.
FAQ's
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- Birdie will be under the supervision and control of her handler at all times.
- Birdie will be kept on a leash at all times.
- Birdie will never be left alone with students.
- Birdie will only interact upon student interaction and with permission.
- Birdie will have a designated “Safe Spot” for rest breaks.
- Birdie will be well-groomed, regularly bathed and kept up to date with all vaccinations.
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If you have concerns with your child interacting with Birdie, please complete this form. You may also indicate any specific questions you might have. We will then be in touch to discuss a specific plan to address these concerns.
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Click here to get your official “Birdie Has Your Back” shirt. A portion of each transaction will support the care for Birdie.
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Check out Birdie’s Amazon wishlist for fun treats and toys she can enjoy during her lunch break at school.