Why do we use therapy dogs?

Dog-assisted mentoring uses therapy dogs to boost school readiness and emotional development. Our therapy dogs create a calm and supportive environment, helping students with emotional regulation and engaging them in enjoyable learning activities.

The most important thing in our world is the children. Canine Comprehension offers only experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate mentors. While our dogs are the key to connecting with young people, the true quality comes from our curriculum, experience, and the expertise of the entire team.

Our approach involves structured sessions where students interact with therapy dogs under the guidance of our skilled mentors. Each session addresses specific emotional and educational goals, using the unique bond between the student and the dog to facilitate learning and emotional growth.

Activities may include problem-solving with the dog, reading to the dog, engaging in guided play, or participating in mindfulness exercises, all tailored to meet the student’s individual needs.

Regular attendance in our programs can lead to more positive feelings about school and, most importantly, about themselves. The presence of a therapy dog makes even the most awkward or tough conversations easier. By shifting the focus to our furry friends, students often feel less anxious, more in control of their emotions, and may even make some new friends along the way.

The Power of Dog-Assisted Learning in Schools

Our programs focus on tailored activities to enhance specific skills and address identified needs:

Canine Comprehension: Dog Assisted Learning Melbourne
Canine Comprehension: Dog Assisted Learning Melbourne
  • Emotional Literacy Enhancement: Participants will engage in activities such as “Watch and name” with the therapy dogs, where they can attempt to observe the dog and list words as a group to suggest how the dog may be feeling. Additionally, interactive storytelling sessions about the dog’s emotions and emotional literacy-based games will be incorporated to make learning engaging and enjoyable.
  • Social/Emotional Skills Development: Activities will include structured interactions between participants and therapy dogs, promoting empathy, communication, and emotional regulation. Group discussions facilitated by mentors will encourage reflection on personal experiences and feelings, fostering a sense of belonging.
  • Motivation to Attend School: Activities in the programs are designed to incorporate incentives such as rewards and recognition for attendance and participation. These rewards are often based around games, tricks, and dog training, fostering an interactive and hands-on learning experience that is designed to create excitement and anticipation among participants and make school a positive and memorable environment.
  • Building Confidence and Self-Esteem: Participants will be encouraged to set and achieve personal goals in relation to obstacles, agility or obedience maneuvers with the therapy dog, with mentors providing guidance and support along the way. Opportunities for success and praise during interactions with therapy dogs will help boost confidence and self-esteem as well as given an opportunity to discuss how we can motivate and celebrate success.

Individualised Goals

Our individual mentoring sessions are directed by the people who know the young person best. We will ask for individualised goals, which will inform our interactions. Examples of goals we address include:

  • Addressing Learning Concerns: We provide a supportive space for individuals to address their learning concerns, helping them better understand their unique challenges.
  • Identifying Worries: Through insightful interactions, we assist individuals in identifying the triggers that may hinder their learning and emotional well-being.
  • Developing Confidence and Coping Strategies: We empower individuals to develop confidence and effective coping strategies to overcome obstacles and setbacks.
  • Mindfulness Techniques: We introduce age-appropriate mindfulness techniques that promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, and well-being.
  • Improving Interpersonal and Social Skills: Our programs emphasise improving interpersonal and social skills, emotional management, and cultivating empathy. These skills are essential for forging more vital and more meaningful connections in learning and beyond.

Is there any evidence that dog-assisted learning is successful?

Yes!!
We have conducted our own reviews and studies, and there are many independent reviews and scientific studies to support using therapy dogs in a learning environment.

Research & Evidence

Learn more about our
Dog-Assisted Therapy Programs

Interactions with our therapy dogs and mentors have radically transformed our young clients. Our therapy dogs and mentors serve as catalysts for growth, learning, and emotional resilience, enabling individuals to thrive in their cognitive and emotional journeys.

Our programs focus on three key areas: emotional well-being, social skills development and academic support.

Find out more about each of our programs here:

Canine Comprehension: Dog Assisted Learning Melbourne
Canine Comprehension: Dog Assisted Learning Melbourne
Canine Comprehension: Dog Assisted Learning Melbourne

Individual Mentoring Programs

School & Library Programs

Dog For A Day Programs

Speaking Events & Workshops