UAE Schools Using Dogs for Wellbeing

Canine companions are known to bring smiles to their humans and so, for many, it only makes sense that school children may also feel the benefits of their company. Following widespread heightened concern about the mental health and wellbeing of young people in recent years, the use of school therapy dogs is on the increase internationally, with raised morale and mental health benefits being associated with these initiatives.
UAE Schools Using Dogs for Wellbeing
By Susan Roberts
Do your children attend a UAE school? Take our survey and help other parents.
WhichSchoolAdvisor's annual school survey.
LET'S GO

If you’ve ever owned a dog, you will likely understand the soothing and positive influence they can have on the people around them. Canine companions are known to bring smiles to their humans and so, for many, it only makes sense that school children may also feel the benefits of their company.

Following widespread heightened concern about the mental health and wellbeing of young people in recent years, the use of school therapy dogs is on the increase internationally, with raised morale and mental health benefits being associated with these initiatives. Here we find the UAE schools that are utilising the power of canine cuddles in promoting student mental health.

What is a Therapy Dog?

Therapy dogs are domestic pets that go to settings such as schools, for the emotional wellbeing of children and staff, engaging in 'therapeutic contact' (petting/stroking or simply spending time with people). They are trained to provide comfort and affection, and to reduce stress in those who spend time with them.

Do Therapy Dogs Really Support Student Wellbeing?

Studies overwhelmingly suggest that YES, therapy animals in educational settings positively impact student social and emotional wellbeing. Perhaps unexpectedly, some studies have even shown that the use of therapy dogs in classrooms has supported academic achievement too (although when we consider the effect that a child’s emotional state has on their ability to learn, this is perhaps not so surprising).

Schools using therapy dogs have found that children often develop in confidence, appear more motivated to learn, are less likely to avoid tasks and are more able to regulate their emotions at school. On top of all this, therapy dogs can act as a 'social catalyst', facilitating social interactions for students who, for a variety of reasons, may find this aspect of school life challenging. 

GEMS Royal Dubai School

undefined

Luna the Golden Retriever is based on the GEMS Royal Dubai School Counsellor’s office and works alongside her every day to provide comfort and affection to students while they share any concerns or tensions they may have. Luna creates a relaxing atmosphere, as she lounges in his office bed, and lets students stroke her golden fur.

Fairgreen International School

undefined

15-year-old lovable Rufus visits Fairgreen International School every Thursday to assist the school counsellor in the school’s counselling hub. He is available to meet students for a chat and a cuddle during school hours. One Fairgreen student lovingly described Rufus as “the definition of happiness”, which tells us everything about the impact he has at the school community.

Jumeirah College

undefined

Bruno the therapy dog is a much-loved member of the Jumeirah College community. He visits the school every Wednesday and takes part in many school activities; he joins students in their classrooms and is always around for special events.

Kent College

undefined

Ziggy and Marshall, the therapy dog duo, are always a welcome sight at Kent College, where they aim to brighten up everyone’s days. This playful pair are available for students to cuddle and take care of, creating a fun focus.

Ranches Primary School

undefined

Wellness dogs, Lucy and Arthur, have become a cherished addition within the Ranches Primary School community. Once a week and one at a time, their duties range from taking part in reading clubs, offering a nurturing paw for children (or adults) to hold onto, performing shows for days such as World Animal Day and helping to educate children about the responsibilities inherent with animal care and animal rights.

Comments
Latest UAE articles
Choosing A School

A Look Inside the New Redwood Montessori Al Furjan

With the huge influx of families moving into the Al Furjan residential community in recent…

University

Record Number of Students Get University Place Via Clearing

A record number of UK 18-year-olds have secured a place at a UK university using Clearing.…

School Performance

Top UK Boarding Schools for A Level Results

The top five boarding schools in the UK for A Levels results in 2023 are Oxford Internatio…

Society

New Parents & Kids Book Club Launches This Week

Looking for a monthly book club for you and your little ones to attend together? Then look…

Choosing A School

Is It Too Late to Find an FS1 School Space?

The start of the new school year has come and gone, the youngest children in FS1 and Pre-K…

Parenting

Why Should I Join My School’s Parent Association?

In the UAE, most private schools will have an active parent association or group. These de…

Best School

Inside Redwood Montessori Al Bateen

Conveniently situated in the commercial and residential area of Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi, is R…

Exam Preparation

What Does It Cost To Take I/GCSEs and A Levels in the UAE?

If you have a child who is sitting their GCSEs or A Levels next year, have you considered …

0 Schools Selected
keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up
Your selection Clear All