There are many benefits to having a well-being dog in a school setting, the main one being the health and well- being of both Pupils and Staff alike. A dog has an immediate calming effect by just being near. As one of our Year 1 children said,  “Just seeing Denzel makes me smile and makes my day better straight away!” Denzel is a typical Labradoodle, calm, affectionate and very gentle natured. He is a much loved staff member now and a integral part of the Cayton School family.

The role of well-being dogs is to react and respond to people and their environment, under the guidance and direction of their handler. For example, an individual might be encouraged to gently pat or talk to a dog to teach sensitive touch and help them be calm.

Having a dog in school has the potential to help young children to develop in a range of academic, personal and social areas.