Hi! My name is Sally, and I’m a Learning Support Teacher in the Mid Coast region of NSW and I need your help to bring a support dog to our students.

Every day, I work with students from all walks of life—children with learning difficulties, disabilities, trauma backgrounds, and those navigating anxiety, social challenges, or simply having a tough day. I also support high-achieving students and talented athletes who may struggle emotionally or socially. In short, I work with every child in our school.

Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful connections can be in helping children regulate, engage, and thrive. But I’ve also seen how many of our students need more than just academic support—they need emotional safety, calm, and unconditional acceptance. That’s why I’m advocating for a school support dog.

Support dogs in schools aren’t just a trend—they’re a proven intervention. A 2023 study by Baird, Berger, and Grové found that therapy dogs significantly improve students’ emotional wellbeing, social engagement, and learning outcomes. Another Australian study from Monash University showed that children involved in a therapy dog-assisted social-emotional learning program reported feeling more empowered, emotionally aware, and connected to their peers and families.

Programs like BackTracks-Paws Up, PAWS in Schools and Dogs Connect are already helping schools across Australia integrate therapy dogs to promote mental health, reduce anxiety, and build inclusive communities. These dogs become part of the school culture—offering comfort during tough moments, helping students regulate emotions, and even supporting literacy and attendance.

The NSW Department of Education has recognised the value of support dogs and provides clear guidelines for their safe and ethical use in schools. I have written a school support dog document outlining all aspects of the dogs' rights, role and everyone's responsibilities.

For our school, a support dog would be more than a companion—it would be a transformative presence. It would help our students feel seen, soothed, and supported. It would offer staff a moment of calm in a busy day. And it would bring our community together in a shared mission of care and connection.

I’m asking for your support to help raise the funds needed to bring a trained support dog into our school. With your help, we can create a space where every child feels safe, valued, and ready to learn—with a wagging tail by their side.

Questions You Might Be Thinking Of...

Who will actually own the dog?

I will. The dog will live with me and be part of our family. After school hours, it will be off duty—free to frolic, play ball, or enjoy a walk on the beach. Just like any other pet, it will have time to rest, recharge, and be loved.

How will the funds raised be used?

The initial cost of purchasing the groodle is $5000.

Other costs such as insurance, medical expenses, food and housing will be covered by me, less any money that is donated.

The initial cost to purchase the groodle is $5000.

How will the dog be used in school?

Following the NSW Department of Education’s guidelines, the dog will attend school three days a week, working alongside our learning support team. It will support students across all year levels—whether they’re feeling anxious, dysregulated, or just need a moment of calm. On its non-working days, the dog will rest at home, where it’s never alone and always surrounded by people who care.

What sort of dog will it be?

All signs point to a Groodle—a gentle, intelligent, and empathetic breed ideal for working with children. We’re looking to partner with DoodleDogs Australia, whose founder has over 35 years of experience, including training dogs for therapy and police work. Their dogs are known for their calm temperament and ability to connect deeply with people.

Why does it cost so much?

The initial cost of the Groodle is $5000. Groodles are in high demand for good reason—they’re exceptional therapy animals. The cost covers not just the dog itself, but specialised initial training through programs like those offered by DoodleDogs. These programs ensure the dog is well-prepared to work safely and effectively in a school setting, supporting students with diverse needs.

Is there evidence this will help?

Absolutely. Studies from Monash University and other institutions show that therapy dogs in schools can reduce anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and foster a sense of belonging. Closer to home, the BackTrack - Paws Up program has shown how support dogs can transform the lives of young people facing complex challenges. BackTrack works with disengaged youth across NSW, using therapy dogs to build trust, teach responsibility, and foster emotional resilience. Their holistic approach, grounded in the Circle of Courage model, has helped countless students reconnect with learning and community. Other programs such as PAWS Pet Therapy, Dogs Connect and Delta Therapy Dogs have shown how dogs can transform school environments—helping children feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.