During Term 4, we will be introducing a pilot Therapy Dog Program. The purpose of this letter is to provide guidance to the Victor Harbor High School community around working with a Therapy Dog to enhance wellbeing and engagement. The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) competencies which can be developed through having a Therapy Dog are linked to the Australian Curriculum general capability, Personal and Social Capability. As Engagement and Wellbeing Leader my Therapy Dog, Archer will assist in one on one counselling sessions every Friday.

Currently, I am studying, ‘Loss, Grief and Trauma Counselling: Human-Animal Interactions’ at Flinders University. Therapy will include goal directed interactions with clearly defined outcomes, the dog’s role to assist in lessening the impact of physiological and psychological trauma. Some of the benefits of animal therapy include: increasing self-esteem, social skills, willingness to join in activities, improving interactions with others, reducing anxiety because of the calming effects, helping students learn empathic/nurturing skills and improving the relationship between student and counsellor.

Prior to students engaging in the program, a consent form will be provided and need to be returned before the counselling session. If you have any questions or would like your child to be considered in this program, please contact me at the school (08) 8551 1900 and I will be happy to provide more information.

Sarah Wilson - Wellbeing and Engagement Leader