School Dog
St John’s Middle School has decided to take on a school dog.
Meet Reggie
Reggie belongs to Mrs Hine, Assistant Head and she will be the main point of contact for any dog questions. He is a Cocker Spaniel. Cocker Spaniel lovers often use the word “merry” to describe their breed. Upbeat in the field and mellow at home, this compact, silky-coated bird dog is widely admired for his delightful personality and irresistible good looks.
Reggie grew up in the school environment becoming fully accustomed to the routines of the day and supportive of students within the school. Here are some of the positive effects having a school dog has:
- A calming effect on pupils, particularly those with behavioural or learning difficulties;
- Encouraging expression and participation in more withdrawn children;
- Fostering a sense of responsibility;
- Increasing enthusiasm for and enjoyment of animals which will motivate the children to think and learn;
- Teaching children to nurture and respect life;
- Helping work undertaken with the most vulnerable children and educational improvements with low achievers;
- Helping children build confidence in reading;
- Improving attendance.
His main place of residence will be in Mrs Hine’s office. Whilst moving around the school, the dog will be kept on a short lead and will always be with a member of staff.
School Dog Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the legal owner of the dog and who pays for its costs?
The legal owner of the dog will be Mrs Hine; she will bear the costs associated with owning the dog; the school budget will support insurance.
Will the dog be from a reputable breeder?
Yes. The dog was purchased from a reputable breeder. Mrs Hine visited the puppies in their home and both parents were seen. This puppy was specifically chosen for its temperament.
Has a risk assessment been undertaken?
Yes, a full risk assessment is in place, which will be reviewed regularly. We have carefully considered having a dog in school and sought advice from many sources, including other schools that successfully have a school dog.
Who is responsible for training?
Mrs Hine will be the legal owner of the dog and as a result, will be responsible for its initial training.
How will the dog’s welfare be considered?
The dog will be walked regularly and given free time outside. The dog will have its own space in Mrs Hine’s office where it will not be disturbed by students. The dog will be carefully trained over a period of time and will have unlimited access to food and water. We will work carefully to ensure the dog’s welfare is always considered and remove the dog from the school environment if we don’t feel it is happy.
How will this be managed where children have allergies?
Students will not need to touch the dog, which will relieve the possibility of allergic reactions. We already manage a number of allergies at school and this will be no different for students and adults that are allergic to dogs. Individual needs will always be met and we are happy to work with parents to put additional control measures in place for individual allergies. Any students with allergies to dogs will be built into the risk assessment as they are made known to the school.
My child is frightened of dogs; how will you manage this?
Access to the dog will be carefully managed and supervised and children do not need to have close contact with it if this has been expressed by parents. We hope to work closely with parents of children who are fearful of dogs to alleviate their fear and to teach them how to manage this.
Will other school dogs be allowed in school?
Allowing a dog onto the school site can only be approved by the Headteacher and for educational purposes. This will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Parents can follow Reggie’s training and development on Instagram @reggie_schooldog.