Charity issues safety tips as school support dogs are on the rise in the UK

With the number of support dogs in schools increasing, animal welfare charity, The Dogs Trust, has issued safety tips for headteachers. While the charity advises against having dogs in schools altogether, it acknowledges that this has become a growing trend across the UK. The guidance emphasises that school dogs must always be supervised by their owner, have a designated undisturbed rest area, and undergo professional training before being introduced to the school environment. Whitefriars Primary Academy in Norfolk is one of an estimated 600 schools with a classroom dog – Poppy, a cockapoo, supports children’s wellbeing and learning. Headteacher Mat Tuckwood, who cares for Poppy outside of school hours, emphasised the importance of careful consideration and ensuring a support dog will fit into the school environment. “I would have liked a bigger dog personally, but for [some of] our children who are only four, she’s the perfect size.” Working with a trainer at school and home, Poppy has been praised for knowing which students need her help the most. “She’s very astute at knowing who needs support and help. Some of our children experience trauma or issues at home, or they’re just having a bad day…It’s just that sixth sense that she has” explained Tuckwood. Read more here.