Therapy Dogs as a Therapeutic Intervention in Schools
Therapeutic interventions in schools often include counselling, support groups, art therapy, mindfulness programmes, and the involvement of specialised professionals such as counsellors, psychologists, and even therapy animals like dogs. This is where the Dog Mentor comes in. With a background in teaching and extensive experience as a dog trainer and study in neuro-linguistic programming, Jenny developed a specialised programme to help train dogs to be a positive therapeutic intervention in schools. Since 2013, the Dog Mentor programme has helped hundreds of schools in the UK and Europe experience the positive and life-changing impact of dogs, and nurture care and empathy from children.
A 2026 University of Lincoln study of 58 Dog Mentor schools found that 93% reported the programme helped them achieve their aims for pupils on the autism spectrum.
"I have to say Jenny, this was the best training I’ve had in absolute ages. I knew Bella would have benefits for our school, but I didn’t realise how much a positive impact she would bring. We absolutely love her. Diolch yn fawr!"
JUDITH EDWARDS, HEADTEACHER
Abercanaid Community School, Merthyr Tydfil.
How Therapy Dog Training for Schools Promotes Wellbeing for Students and Staff
The primary goal of therapeutic intervention in schools is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters emotional resilience, enhances academic success, and equips students with the tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges effectively.
The programme suits all needs for dogs, staff, children and parents. It’s essential for dogs to equally benefit from the relationship and actively enjoy their time spent with children and adults. With the help of The Dog Mentor Programme, a school dog can nurture a comfortable and happy dynamic, enabling dogs to create a calming, positive influence on children.
A specially-trained school dog can play a pivotal role as a therapeutic intervention within educational settings.
What does the research say about therapy dogs in schools?
In 2026, researchers at the University of Lincoln, University College London and Virginia Commonwealth University published a study of 58 Dog Mentor schools in the journal Behavioral Sciences. It looked at how teachers and dog handlers saw the programme supporting pupils on the autism spectrum. Of the participating schools:
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98% reported reduced stress and anxiety
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88% reported the dogs helped children regulate their emotions
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86% reported help with social interactions
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75% reported improved engagement with learning
Frequently Asked Questions
The Latest Insights
We've been busy implementing the Dog Mentor Programme in new schools, as well as visiting over 500+ Dog Mentor Programme Schools who are already seeing the benefits from having a school dog. Have a look at some of the exciting work we've been doing!
