KERANG South Primary School has welcomed a classmate of a different kind – a wellbeing dog.
Louie, a seven-month-old Spoodle is a bundle of fluff, energy and fun and currently weighs around 11kg.
School co-ordinator Jeannette Teasdale said Loui belonged to a staff member and attends school for a limited number of sessions each week.
“Eventually, he will attend school most days, although there will always be time built into his timetable for rest and relaxation,” she said.
“Louie is a very friendly puppy and loves to interact with students and staff.
“He loves pats and belly rubs and loves to play with his toys, particularly squeaky ones.”
Ms Teasdale said students and staff had been learning about the three expectations around Louie’s work at school.
“We are reminded to speak to the person first and then to Louie, to give Louie space and not overcrowd him and to keep moving and not stop and stare,” she said.
“Louie’s main task this term is learning how to relax at school, and students are learning what they can do to help Louie be relaxed.”
The school is receiving guidance and mentorship through the Dogs Connect Program.
Dogs Connect is a world-first mental health and wellness program.
Based in Bendigo, they work in a number of schools, health organisations and even in prisons integrating wellbeing dogs into communities.
“Louie isn’t a therapy dog, but rather a wellbeing dog with the aim of providing opportunities for increasing wellbeing, promoting connection, helping with emotional support and providing relief from anxiety and stress for children and adults alike,” Ms Teasdale said.
“Although in the early stages, we have already seen some amazing connections between students, staff and Louie, and we are very excited about the opportunities that this work will open up for us.”
