Introduction 

In today’s educational environment, students face increasing academic and social pressures. The rise of mental health challenges such as anxiety, stress, and depression are well documented among K-12 students and to address these challenges, many schools are turning to innovative solutions, including animal-assisted therapy (AAT). 

Across the country, schools implementing AAT programs have reported remarkable outcomes and right here in North Carolina, several elementary schools have integrated therapy dogs into their reading programs, leading to improved literacy rates and increased student confidence (North Carolina Education Initiative, 2020).

Similarly, middle and high schools using therapy animals in counseling sessions have noted a reduction in student stress and anxiety levels (American Counseling Association, 2019).

By incorporating trained therapy animals and their handlers into their approach to student wellbeing schools can support  a nurturing environment that fosters emotional well-being, enhances learning, and promotes positive behavior.

What is Animal-Assisted Therapy? 

Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a clinically-proven approach that incorporates trained animals into intervention programs to improve emotional, social, and cognitive skills (American Veterinary Medical Association, 2022). Therapy animals and their handlers can work with a school mental health provider to support students in individual or group contexts, providing comfort, support and a wide range of benefits. 

The Science Behind the Wagging Tail

1. Reducing Anxiety and Stress – Interacting with therapy animals has been shown in children to lower cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and increase oxytocin, which promotes relaxation and emotional bonding (Beetz et al, 2012). Research has shown this to reduce student anxiety by up to 35% during high-stress periods and to decrease the symptoms of depression.
2. Improving Social Skills – Therapy animals encourage communication, empathy, and teamwork. Students, especially those with autism spectrum disorder or social anxiety, often find comfort in interacting with animals, which helps them develop essential social skills (O’Haire 2013).
3. Enhancing Focus and Engagement – Many educators find that students are more engaged in the learning process when therapy animals are present. Reading programs, for instance, can incorporate therapy dogs to help students build confidence in reading aloud without fear of judgment (Jalongo, Astorino, & Bomboy, 2004).
4. Supporting Emotional Regulation – Students struggling with emotional regulation, such as those experiencing trauma or behavioral disorders, benefit from the calming presence of therapy animals. Schools have reported fewer behavioral incidents and improved classroom dynamics when AAT programs are implemented (Anderson & Olson, 2006).
5. Encouraging Physical Activity – Walking, petting, or playing with therapy animals encourages movement, helping students with physical disabilities or those who need sensory input to regulate their emotions (Hatch, 2007).
   

Conclusion Animal-assisted therapy is a powerful tool that can transform the educational experience for students by fostering emotional support, improving social interactions, and enhancing academic performance. As more schools recognize the value of AAT, the movement toward integrating therapy animals in classrooms continues to grow. By bringing AAT into their school,  educators can grow their toolbox to create more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Would you like to learn more about implementing an AAT program at your school? Please contact us at info@petpalsnc.org or check out our website at  www.petpalsnc.org to get started!