Therapy Dogs in Schools — How They Help Students and Staff

Picture this: you’re walking into school, nervous about a test or dealing with a rough morning. Just inside the doors, you’re greeted by a fluffy, wagging therapy dog who leans in for a pet. Suddenly, things feel a little lighter. That’s the everyday magic of therapy dogs in schools.

Are therapy dogs allowed in schools?

Yes! Increasingly, schools across the U.S. are welcoming therapy dogs. Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs need permission from the school administration to visit. Some schools bring in therapy dogs for special events, while others have them on campus every day, accompanied by a handler, such as a school counselor or resource officer.

What can therapy dogs do in school?

Therapy dogs don’t just sit in the office. They:

• Greet students at the door.

• Sit with anxious or upset kids.

• Listen to young readers practice aloud.

• Visit classrooms to help set a calm, positive tone.

• Offer comfort after tough events, like the loss of a student.
  
  

How do therapy dogs help in school?

• They lower stress and anxiety.

• They help shy students feel more comfortable.

• They encourage kids to attend school, especially when attendance is a challenge.

• They can even help improve focus and classroom behavior by giving students a reason to calm down.
  
  

What are the benefits of therapy dogs in school?

The benefits go beyond the students. Teachers and staff also feel the difference. Therapy dogs create a warmer school environment, reduce stress levels, and can even improve school spirit.

Success in action

Many schools that bring in therapy dogs report improved student attendance, fewer disciplinary issues, and more smiles in the hallways. It’s not a quick fix for every problem, but it’s a powerful way to support the emotional health of students.

The takeaway

Therapy dogs help schools feel safer, friendlier, and more welcoming. For students, it’s like having a furry reminder that they are cared for — and sometimes, that’s exactly what they need to succeed.