Therapy Dog ‘Coral’ supports students with diverse needs at Miallo State School
Local School
Meet Coral, a furry labradoodle who recently became the newest member of staff at Miallo State School. Coral’s job description? Supporting and comforting students with disabilities or who require additional support.
Miallo State School is the first school in the area to have a school therapy dog. Being an inclusive school that supports student’s emotional well-being, Coral was the perfect fit.
Ms Anet Ridley, Principal of Miallo State School, said that Coral acts as a calming and friendly presence for students with additional or special needs.
Ms Emma Whitburn, who is the ‘student with disability teacher’, approached Ms Ridley with the idea of a school therapy dog. “After speaking with other schools that have therapy dogs and delving into research regarding the positive impacts in schools, it was a resounding yes”, Ms Ridley said.
“Studies show benefits such as reduced stress, depression, anxiety, decreased feelings of isolation and an improvement in socialisation, communication and feelings of well-being and connectedness.
“Her presence enables students to be calmer and to be involved in their learning in the classroom. Some students like to read to her and show her their work. They are always out to impress her with their learning and behaviour.”
Furry friend
Besides Coral’s friendly presence, her incredibly soft fur is lovely to touch. “Research into therapy dogs cites that the physical aspect of touching and patting therapy dogs can lower blood pressure and cortisol”, Ms Ridley said. “It also increases hormones associated with feelings of well-being and stress reduction.
“Students are amazed at how soft her fur is and how loving and friendly Coral is. Their faces light up whenever she is around and they just love her, as do our staff.”
It is not only the students that are enthusiastic about Coral, Ms Ridley and Ms Whitburn have also received great positive feedback from parents.
“Many parents have let us know about the impact Coral has had on their child. They also love saying hi to Coral at drop off and pick up time.”
Special breed
Coral is a very special breed of labradoodle, making her the perfect dog to work in a school setting. Research shows that their amazing temperament, non-shedding coat and their suitability of working with children, and in particular, children with additional needs.
“It took over a year for Coral’s owner, Ms Whitburn, to even get on the waitlist for this special breed”, Ms Ridley said.
“Coral flew up from Brisbane, when she was still a puppy, in September last year. Ms Whitburn and I picked her up from the plane and there were lots of happy tears.
“Coral’s breeders were recommended by friends for being ethical breeders that produced beautifully natured dogs, perfect for being therapy dogs.”
Work days
Coral’s first day at Miallo was in the middle of Term 4, 2021 when she attended her first Friday assembly and was introduced to the whole school.
“Coral usually works three full days a week at school”, Ms Ridley Said. “In between working with different students, Coral has break time so she has a nice balance and doesn't get too tired.
“She also spends a day with a trainer, learning all the skills she needs to be a great school dog.”
Coral’s support
“Coral is a calming presence in the classroom. She has helped our students with anxiety, autism, social or emotional issues and with their emotional regulation and general well-being.
“We’ve also seen motivation and confidence rise in students, particularly if they know that it will be their turn to take Coral for her break.
“Teachers appreciate the additional support for students with additional or special needs, so that these students can experience academic and social success in the classroom with their peers.
“Coral’s presence calms students and teachers have reported having to redirect students less, and a reduction in anxious or challenging behaviours.”