What are the benefits of having a school dog(s)? 

Numerous research studies have shown the benefits of therapy dogs in schools & many districts have implemented them across the nation. Evidence indicates the following areas can be positively  impacted due to the integration of a therapy dog: 

○ Cognitive: companionship with a dog stimulated memory, problem-solving, and game playing. 

○ Social: a dog provides a positive mutual topic for discussion, encourages responsibility & respectfulness, positively impacts well-being, and focused interactions with others. 

○ Emotional: school dogs improve self-esteem, relieve anxiety, and lift mood, often provoking laughter and fun. Dogs can also teach compassion and respect for other living things. 

○ Physical: interaction with a furry friend reduces blood pressure, provides tactile stimulation, assists with pain management, gives motivation to move, and stimulates the senses. 

○ Reading: reading to dogs has been proven to help children develop literacy skills and build confidence through both the calming effect the dog’s presence has on children, as well as the fact that a dog will listen to children read without being judgmental or critical. This comforting environment helps to nurture children’s enthusiasm for reading and provides them with the confidence to read aloud. 

Frequently asked questions: 

What if my child is allergic to dogs? 

It is understandable that some of you may be concerned about possible allergic reactions to a  school dog. However, Harrison & Braxton’s breed is hypoallergenic (meaning they do not shed more than humans do) and they will continue to be properly and thoroughly groomed on a regular basis.

Will Harrison & Braxton be properly cared for? 

Harrison & Braxton will be extremely well looked after and taken care of. They will be appropriately introduced and acclimated to the school environment with students. Harrison & Braxton will always be kept on a leash and accompanied by Mrs. Proctor. They will continue to visit the vet regularly and be kept up to date on all vaccinations and preventative medications. 

What if my child is scared of dogs? 

Some children may not have experience with dogs or have had a negative experience(s) and thus have a fear of dogs (or other animals). Harrison & Braxton will only be in contact with children who want to work with them. They have completed training that helps them to be gentle around children. Seeing a therapy dog at school can be a good opportunity to have a positive experience with a dog/begin to heal a previous negative experience (even if it’s from afar and not directly interacting with them). 

How will students be informed and prepared for Harrison? 

Mrs. Proctor has shared a video with all classroom teachers introducing the dogs and the expectations around them. Kindergarten teachers will show the video to their classes before any classroom visits. Older students will review expectations with Mrs. Proctor.  The video is also available here- Harrison video for caregivers to watch and review with your student(s) if you’d like as well.  

If for any reason you’d like to opt your student out of interacting with Harrison, please complete the School Therapy Dog Opt-Out Form. Please do so by Wednesday, September 2nd.

We hope you will join us in welcoming Harrison & Braxton back to the  OHES family and embrace all that they have to offer our school! 

If you have questions or concerns, please contact  

Mrs. Proctor at esyrowski@ohschools.org or at  

(419)536-8329 ext 2221.