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Therapy Dogs of Andrews ISD

Dog therapy has been a beneficial support for students and adults, and research shows that trained therapy dogs can create healthy environments for learning and socialization.

Dog Therapy Stats 101

Mental Health Impacts:

  • The act of petting animals releases an automatic relaxation response and increases serotonin and oxytocin that play in elevating a positive mood.
  • Lowers anxiety
  • Provides an "escape" or distraction Reduces initial resistance that accompanies counseling

Physical Health Impacts:

  • Lowers Blood Pressure
  • Slows anxious breathing
  • Encourages greater use of language and social interaction
  • Can serve as a motivational tool

 

All AISD therapy dogs undergo ongoing health checks and complete thorough behavioral training.  All AISD therapy dogs and handlers are certified under the Alliance of Therapy Dogs program. Therapy Dogs are handled through the Counseling Department on select AISD campuses.