What We Do

What’s the role of our therapy dogs in schools?

Our therapy dog and mentor teams provide dog-assisted learning opportunities by working with small groups or individuals in schools.

Through consistent weekly interactions and targeted program goals, young people experience a range of benefits. These include:

Increased motivation, connection, and positive experiences at school
Improved wellbeing and emotional regulation, boosting learning readiness
Enhanced awareness of social dynamics and improved social skills
Increased knowledge of mindfulness tools and techniques to reduce anxiety
Strengthened self-confidence, sense of achievement and willingness to learn
Improved tools and ability to positively manage transitions and change

We use an evidence-based approach and data to ensure our programs are effective, impact-focused, and fun too!

Want to access our programs through the Victorian Schools Mental Health Fund Menu? We’re an approved provider. Schedule a chat and we’ll walk you through the process, or learn more about using your mental health funding in our FAQs.

Sarah Gruffalo Maisey Canine Cmprehension

Our experienced mentors:

Support young people’s wellbeing for learning readiness
Work with all school-aged children: Kindergarten to Year 12
Run 1:1 and small group sessions (up to 10 students)
Aim to create neurodiverse-affirming environments
Focus on a strength-based approach for all learners
Promote emotional regulation and engagement through calm, supportive environments
Practice mindfulness techniques to help students navigate change

Making an impact

Sessions Conducted

Schools Engaged

Dedicated Staff Members

Committed to making an impact on young people’s wellbeing and their learning journey

For students and young people who may be anxious, disengaged, or struggling socially and emotionally, our therapy dog teams make a difference. Our programs provide clear goals, flexible delivery, and measurable outcomes.

In every session, we aim to empower young people with the skills and tools to navigate the world confidently.

Individual mentoring

We can provide individual mentoring programs to young people at school, in their own home, or at a place they feel most comfortable.

Animal-assisted education is a powerful way to support students with individualised learning goals—and to help them feel at ease and valued for who they are.

Through our evidence-based practices—plus the compassionate guidance of our experienced mentors and therapy dogs—young people develop vital skills. Equally important, our supportive environment helps them feel positive about themselves, too.

Individual Mentoring

Canine Comprehension: Dog Assisted Learning Melbourne

School & library therapy dog sessions

Our school and library programs are structured around specific goals, including emotional regulation, mental health, social skills, communication, literacy development, and more.

Through weekly programs for the term or the entire year, we provide consistent support and establish rapport with students and staff—providing all the benefits of animal-assisted education in an ethical, safe, evidence-based way.

School & Library Programs

Beyond schools: Therapy dogs at your workplace

Dog-assisted learning isn’t just for students!

We visit school staff and corporate workplaces, too. Discover how to transform your environment, support employee wellbeing, and enhance team dynamics through our Dog for a Day program at your workplace.

Dog For A Day Programs

Sarah speaking event holding mic Canine Comprehension with therapy dogs Gruffalo and Maisey

Speaking events & workshops

Our speaking events integrate therapy dog demonstrations, uplifting storytelling, and the profound connection between humans and animals.

Our presenter, Sarah Macdonald, is a dynamic leader, dedicated to inspiring and shaping a brighter future for the communities she serves. Her innovative approach to education and mental health has earned recognition and accolades, reflecting her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact with well-trained therapy dogs.

Speaking Events & Workshops

Special development schools: Creating an accessible, positive environment

Canine Comprehension has robust experience working in special development schools (SDS). We support students with diverse needs, including mobility challenges and nonverbal communication styles.

We work collaboratively with educators and caregivers to understand developmental goals. In SDS settings, our therapy dog teams apply a tailored approach to create a relaxed, respectful learning environment.

How our model supports students with diverse needs

Tailored program design and individualised goals

Programs and sessions are adapted to meet students’ unique needs and personal development goals (whether improving attention, reducing anxiety, or encouraging nonverbal communication, for example).
Accessible activities focus on tactile, visual, and emotional engagement.
Support for nonverbal students is provided with activities focusing on alternative communication methods.

Safe and positive therapy dog interactions

The nonjudgmental presence of a therapy dog helps students feel at ease and fosters emotional regulation.
Therapy dogs provide a bridge for communication through gestures, eye contact, and touch for students with nonverbal communication styles.
Therapy dog activities offer accessible, inclusive interactions for students with mobility challenges.

Emotional and social development

Calming interactions with the therapy dog teach students emotional regulation.
Students develop social skills as they engage with the therapy dog, peers, and mentors, promoting empathy and teamwork.
Interactions with the therapy dog build students’ confidence and foster a sense of achievement and self-worth.

Evidence-based strategies

Our model is informed by research showing that interactions with therapy dogs can reduce ADHD symptoms, hyperactivity, and aggressive behaviours while improving attention, coping mechanisms, and overall wellbeing.
We utilise techniques that align with findings from studies like those by Lloyd & Sorin (2014), highlighting the benefits of animal-assisted learning for emotional and social skills.

Safe and ethical practices

Our therapy dogs are calm and responsive in diverse settings, including working with students who may have unpredictable behaviours.
Ethical treatment of our animals is a cornerstone of our practice, ensuring their wellbeing while they assist students.
We are affiliated with world-leading organisations, including the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations (IAHAIO), attesting to our ongoing commitment to best practices in the field of animal-assisted learning.

Implementation in special development schools

Small group or one-on-one settings

Sessions are conducted in small groups or one-on-one to provide personalised attention and minimise sensory overload.

Interactive activities

Activities may include guiding the dog through simple tasks, brushing or petting the dog, or using assistive devices to communicate commands.
Non-verbal students may use visual aids or gestures to interact with the dogs, enhancing their communication skills.

Progress monitoring

We communicate frequently with staff to assess students’ goals and progress, and we provide weekly written progress notes.

How do students benefit?

Reduction in anxiety and stress levels.
Improved attention span and focus.
Enhanced social skills and peer interaction.
Increased confidence in non-verbal communication or alternative communication methods.
A sense of accomplishment and pride in participating in inclusive activities.

Experience the joy of our therapy dog teams at your special development school

Get in touch to discuss how we can provide flexible, integrated support for students and staff at your special development school.

Our approach has
H.E.A.R.T.

Partner Schools & Organisations

Awards

Our Affiliations

International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations (IAHAIO)

We are thrilled to be full members of the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations. This esteemed affiliation underscores our commitment to advancing the field of animal-assisted learning. Through IAHAIO, we actively engage in global discussions and research, contributing to the development of ethical and effective practices that enhance the well-being of both animals and humans.

Australian Animal Therapies Ltd (ATL)

As proud members of Australian Animal Therapies Ltd, we play a vital role in promoting the understanding and acceptance of animal-assisted services. Our collaboration with ATL allows us to advocate for ethical standards and support the growth of this young sector. Together, we strive to ensure that those in need can access the benefits of animal-assisted therapy, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.

Aussie Dog Friendly Business Directory

The Aussie Dog Friendly Business Directory is a niche market business directory that is consolidating ‘ALL-THINGS-DOGS’ across Australia, making it easy for dog owners to connect with dog friendly businesses and dog friendly activities.