As the old saying goes, an apple a day keeps the doctors away. But what if there is a better and more effective way that involves your pet?
We are all aware of the health benefits that a dog companionship brings. (If not, you can read more about them here.) However, a school located in New South Wales, Australia has taken it to a whole other level.
Tweeds Head South Public School has recently welcomed a new wellbeing officer into its team. What makes her different from all the other wellbeing officers out there? She’s a dog!! Yes you’ve heard that right, a canine is now officially a member of its staff.
Bliss, a Golden Retriever crossed with a Poodle, was brought in by the relieving principal Christine Marshall as a way to help students and staff cope with the Covid-19 pandemic. Ms Marshall had noticed that the fallout from COVID-19 has had a negative impact on the staff and students at the school. One of the unintentional consequences caused by the pandemic is the housing crisis in the area.
The region has been inundated with new people arriving from the cities moving to the coast. This has driven up the housing and rental prices in the area. As the school is situated in a relatively poor community, many of its residents are finding it harder to afford affordable housing. Some families have resorted to living amongst other families under the one roof. This housing crisis, along with the ongoing lockdowns and border closures, has led to the morale within the community to be at an all time low.
It was during these troubling times that Christine decided to see how she could help improve the wellbeing of everyone in the school. She first heard about the concept of a ‘wellbeing dog’ on social media. And after some further research, she decided to adopt one at her school. So she went and got Bliss.
Wellbeing Officer Bliss has had a positive impact on the school since she arrived
Just like any other teacher, Bliss is working full time at the school alongside the staff wellbeing team. Even though she’s only just started, Bliss’s retirement package has already been planned as well.
Christine has already noticed the positive impacts of Bliss in and around the school. In one situation, a highly anxious student was having trouble focusing on class. But after a quick hug with Bliss, his body language changed completely and was able to continue his learning.
Outside of her full-time professional career, Bliss still gets to enjoy the life of a normal dog. This includes lots of play, exercise and naps. But during the day, Bliss’s only job is to be at school. Her mere presence is enough to help students overcome the difficulties of learning and other problems they may have.
