Therapy Dog Information
Welcome to the OTHS Therapy Dog Program! In today’s fast-paced world, students face numerous challenges that can impact their mental and emotional well-being. Recognizing the importance of support and compassion, we’ve created this program to provide a safe and nurturing environment through the presence of specially trained therapy dogs.
Therapy dogs have a unique ability to bring comfort and joy, helping to reduce stress and anxiety while promoting emotional connection. Our program aims to create a positive atmosphere where students can feel relaxed, supported, and understood. By fostering these connections, we hope to enhance overall well-being and create a stronger school community.
Join us on this exciting journey as we collaborate with local therapy dogs, explore the benefits of animal-assisted therapy, engage with our furry friends, and learn how to cultivate a more compassionate school environment together! Please submit a request form if you would like to have a therapy dog visit your classroom or event.
Schedule a visit from a therapy dog!
Meet Sylvie!
We’re thrilled to share that one of our school social workers will now have a therapy dog, Sylvie, in her office. This addition aims to provide an extra layer of support for students seeking a safe space to talk about their feelings and experiences.
Sylvie is trained to offer comfort and companionship, helping to create a calming atmosphere. Whether you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to, spending time with Sylvie can be a great way to find comfort and relief.
We’re excited for this new addition and can’t wait for you to meet Sylvie in your classrooms or around the Smiley Campus. Please submit a request form if you would like to arrange a visit.
FAQs
When will Sylvie attend school?
Therapy Dog Thursday!
Can I send a student to see Sylvie?
We will make Sylvie visible during the school day. Please encourage students to look for her at the beginning of the school day, during passing periods, or at the end of the school day. She is looking forward to greeting students and staff!
Will Sylvie be at every scheduled classroom event?
Depending on the needs of our school, it is likely that Sylvie will not be able to attend all of the requests. We are partnering with local organizations like Got Your Six Support Dogs (where Sylvie was trained) to bring in some of her favorite friends and their handlers.
What does a visit look like?
When a therapy dog visits your classroom, we ask that you have your students seated. Depending on the classroom environment, we may ask students interested in a visit to come to the dog. In other cases, we may walk the dog down the aisles of your classroom. Please provide the handler with the opportunity to address you and your classroom in order for the visit to be successful for everyone.