Caring for the Caretakers: Self-Care for School Therapy Dog Handlers
Integrating a therapy dog into a school environment can be a transformative experience for students and educators. These furry companions bring comfort, joy, and a unique form of support to the classroom. However, owning and managing a school therapy dog is not just about its benefits; it also involves a significant commitment from the handlers who ensure the dog’s well-being and effectiveness in their role.
Schools and teachers considering or currently working with a therapy dog must acknowledge the physically, intellectually, and emotionally demanding nature of this responsibility. This blog highlights the importance of self-care for handlers, ensuring they remain well-equipped to provide the best support to both the students and the therapy dog.
The Emotional Demands of Therapy Dog Handling
Therapy dog handlers often find themselves in emotionally charged environments, working with students who may be experiencing various challenges. The constant need to empathise and support can lead to empathy fatigue and vicarious trauma. It’s crucial for handlers to recognise these emotional demands as a normal part of their role and to take proactive steps in managing them.
Practical Self-Care Strategies
Mindfulness and Meditation
Regular mindfulness practices can help handlers stay grounded, manage stress, and maintain emotional balance. Even short, daily sessions can make a significant difference.
Journaling
Reflecting on daily experiences and emotions through journaling can provide handlers with insights into their feelings and help process challenging situations.
Emotional Boundaries
Learning to separate personal emotions from those encountered in the classroom is vital. Techniques like visualising a protective bubble can help maintain these boundaries.
Regular Debriefing
Scheduling regular debriefing sessions with a colleague or supervisor can provide essential support and guidance.
Positive Self-Talk
Encouraging positive self-talk can help handlers combat feelings of inadequacy and reinforce their value and impact.
Physical Health and Wellness
Physical well-being is closely tied to emotional health. Handlers should prioritise regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep. Engaging in activities they enjoy, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring good sleep hygiene are all crucial steps in maintaining physical health.
Building a Support Network
A strong support network is crucial for maintaining well-being in demanding roles. Handlers should consider joining peer support groups, engaging in professional development, and seeking mentorship opportunities. Connecting with the wider community of animal-assisted intervention professionals can also provide valuable insights and support.
Balancing Work and Personal Life
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for long-term well-being. Handlers should set clear boundaries between work and personal time, engage in hobbies outside of their professional role, and take regular holidays to recharge.
Owning and managing a school therapy dog is a rewarding yet challenging endeavour. By prioritising self-care, handlers can ensure they are in the best position to provide quality support to students and the therapy dog. Remember, taking care of oneself is not just a personal responsibility but a professional one as well, as it directly impacts the quality of care provided.
Incorporating a therapy dog into a school environment is a journey of growth, learning, and compassion. By reminding handlers to look after themselves, we ensure that this journey is successful and sustainable, benefiting everyone involved.
If you’re a teacher considering a therapy dog, or if you already have one, take the time to invest in self-care practices for yourself and your team. Join our community of like-minded professionals by signing up for our newsletter or attending one of our future workshops. Together, let’s create a supportive environment for both our students and our beloved therapy dogs.
