About Me:

• I am a Chocolate Labrador 
• My birthday is the 29th of September
• My favourite toy is my Kong teddy
• My favourite treat is an apple
• I love to go for walks in the woods and swim in my pool at home

What do I do as a therapy dog at the College? 

I’m here to help make each school day feel a little calmer and more positive.

As a therapy dog, I provide comfort and support to students and staff across the College. Time spent with therapy dogs has been shown to improve classroom focus, assist with emotional regulation, encourage empathy, and support overall wellbeing.

You might see me:

• Sitting quietly alongside students who need a calm moment
• Listening to students read to help build their confidence
• Providing gentle companionship during times of stress or big emotions
• Bringing a friendly and reassuring presence to the school environment

I may not say much, but my calm company and a friendly pat can make a meaningful difference. 

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Did I need any training before coming to the College?

Bringing me to the College required lots of careful planning to ensure everything was safe and well-prepared. This included risk management assessments, approvals, and making sure my vaccinations were up to date. 

I’ve also been working hard on my training. I have completed Puppy Training Levels 1 and 2, which have helped me develop good manners, confidence, and important social skills. I’ll be starting my next training course soon so that I can continue learning how to behave calmly in different environments.

When I turn one, I’ll begin specialised Wellbeing and Support Training to help me become the very best therapy dog I can be for the College community.

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Are there rules for interacting with me?

It's important that everyone interacts with me in a calm, safe and respectful way so I can do my job well. Reading my body language and respecting my boundaries helps me feel comfortable and relaxed while I’m working.

When I’m on duty, I wear my fluoro vest so students and staff can easily tell when it’s okay to approach and spend time with me. Moving gently, speaking quietly, and giving me space when I need it all help create a positive and safe experience for everyone.

Do:

• Approach me calmly and quietly
  
• Read my body language and respect when I need space
• Pet me gently on my back or sides
• Wait for me to come to you before interacting

Don't:

• Disturb me when I'm eating, resting or wearing my fluoro vest
• Pull on my ears, fur or tail
• Yell, chase or make sudden movements around me 

By being kind and patient, students can help me provide the best comfort and support possible.

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Who is responsible for me?

I am always under the care of my owner, Mrs Sinclair, and Mrs James. They make sure I am happy, safe, and ready to provide support to students and staff. I also work closely with the Year 12 Wellbeing Captains to help create a calm and positive environment around the College.

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What if someone is allergic or scared of dogs?

That’s completely okay! The Wellbeing Team has worked closely with our wonderful Nurses to make sure anyone with allergies won’t have to interact with me.

I’ve also been trained to respect boundaries for students and staff who might be nervous around dogs. To keep everyone comfortable, I will be kept out of certain areas where needed, and interactions are always optional.

By working together, everyone can feel safe and included while I provide comfort and support around the College.

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When Will I be at school? 

I will be at the College 3 days a week, starting in Term 2. I spend two days working with the Wellbeing Team, providing comfort and support to students, and one day in the classroom with Mrs Sinclair, helping with calm companionship, and other activities.

This schedule helps me be at my best while making a positive difference around the College.

What makes therapy dogs different from regular pets?

I’m a little different from a dog you might have at home. I’ve been specially trained to stay calm and gentle in busy places, and I am familiar with lots of noises, movements, and new environments. My main job is to support people by helping them feel calm, confident, and cared for. 

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How can students help me feel safe and happy at school? 

When I am at school, you can help me feel calm, safe and happy by using gentle hands, speaking in a quiet voice, following instructions from my handler, and giving me space when I am resting. 

I can't wait to meet you and get to know you all soon!

-Milo