Therapy Dogs

A therapy dog in a primary school can be used:

• To encourage children to read aloud.  Therapy dogs are used in many public libraries across NZ, including the Waikato District Council, Auckland Libraries and Christchurch City Libraries.  

• Reading to dogs helps children to build confidence as many feel more comfortable reading aloud to a dog than an adult.

• To provide emotional support.  Dogs:

• Increase levels of dopamine and serotonin
• Decrease anxiety
• Lower blood pressure and stress levels
• Dramatically increase positive mood

• To help children learn about dog safety:

• NZ has one of the highest rates of dog ownership in the western world
• A high percentage of dog bites are towards children

Breed

• Cavoodle - cross between Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Miniature Poodle
• Temperament - intelligent, affectionate, eager to please, obedient, highly trainable, great with children, laid-back and calm
• Soft poodle-like coats - don’t shed much