News@theLibrary
The Library has a New Member
Mrs Feely’s labradoodle, Freo, will be spending Mondays and Thursdays in the library to give our students a welcoming wag. Freo is a very good listener and loves a story or two. Freo will provide unconditional acceptance and attention; he especially loves a good pat or scratch. Freo’s favourite genres are adventure and mystery, but he doesn’t mind a romantic tear jerker every now and again. Being a labradoodle, Freo is low allergenic and has undergone a complete vet check to ensure he is happy and healthy. Students will be encouraged to get to know Freo: especially those who do not own a pet or are a little hesitant.
Visit the library and meet our newest member, Freo
It is a little known fact that in 1986, a dog called Scruffy was a regular visitor to the College. As Scruffy’s owner was a member of staff, Scruffy was present in the staffroom, out in the playground, and often visited classrooms.
There are proven benefits to pets as therapy. Dogs, due to their ability to be non-judging and great listeners, are popular in this role. Below are a few testaments from different organisations.
Dogs attend weekly during school terms to work with students on individual goals as identified in collaboration with Educators. This might include literacy development, pro-social skills, motor skills, to encourage attendance and increase motivation, increase social connectedness, contribute to improved mental health outcomes (Delta Therapy Dogs, 2022)
According to The Alliance of Therapy Dogs, “Therapy dogs have been called ‘miracle workers’ because of their calming effect on students and teachers.” Therapy dogs help with everything from trauma to reading interventions to a positive school climate (Alliance of Therapy Dogs, 2022).
Research has identified that dogs provide benefits to both students and staff. They provide health, social- emotional and psychological benefits. A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) identified that having a dog present in the class improves and encourages a positive mood and provides both physical and emotional health benefits for students. According to one study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), having a dog present in the classroom promotes a positive mood and provides significant anti-stress effects on the body (Mulvahill, 2019).
Please advise if your daughter has allergies or a fear of dogs. You can contact Mrs Feely directly on mfeely@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au
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