Worth Valley Primary School

Winnie the Therapy Dog

Here at Worth Valley Primary, we have always been clear that the emotional health of our pupils and staff is a priority.  The majority of pupils have met Winnie over the last couple of weeks and I think it’s fair to say she’s already a much-loved member of the team!

Therapy dogs have been active in schools for some time and the benefits of having therapy dogs in school include:

• Physical benefits. Interaction with therapy dogs has been shown to reduce blood pressure, provide physical stimulation and assist with pain management.
• Social benefits.A visiting therapy dog promotes greater self-esteem and focused interaction with other students and teachers.
• Cognitive benefits.It has been empirically proven that therapy dogs stimulate memory and problem-solving skills.
• Emotional and mental health benefits. A therapy dog can lift moods in the classroom, often provoking laughter. The therapy dog is also there to offer friendship and a shoulder to lean on for pupils.