Studies have shown that having therapy dogs in schools help students and staff with their overall health and wellbeing. However, the main benefits amongst students are that it improves attendance, helps pupils in progressing academically, personally and socially.  

For example, a recent study carried out by Professor Jerri J. Kropp and Academic Advisor Mikaela M. Shupp reported that therapy dogs in schools encourage young children to read the animal. This eventually aids in building confidence and improving literacy.  Also, Dogs Trust reported that therapy dogs in schools also support pupils in learning and understanding empathy and  developing suitable interpersonal and social skills- all of which is imperative to human development.  

Schools across the UK have seen an increase in introducing therapy dogs on their grounds. With almost every school that has a therapy dog reporting that that benefits (discussed further on) exceeds the limitations, i.e. some students could be allergic to dogs. 

“Pupils usually come in to see Muffin when they are sad, upset, anxious or sometimes to regulate themselves when they are struggling in lessons.” These are the words of Jackie, our Family Liaison Officer and the person responsible for looking after Muffin- our school dog.

I’ve  also interviewed 4  students who frequently visit our school therapy dog. I asked how it makes them feel when they visit and the most common feedback is that it makes them feel calm, happy and caring. Student A added “It would make me mad if I couldn't  go and see Muffin when I’m not OK.”

Therapy dogs are on the increase in schools in the UK. Though they may have their disadvantages, the majority of schools that have them reported that the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages, as the furry friends have played helpful parts in their pupils' development.