Public Access Rights
Please note that Educational Assistance Dogs do not possess the same public access rights as Assistance Dogs. Therefore, they cannot be brought into shops, buses, or other public places.
Selection & Training
Each Educational Assistance Dog is carefully chosen for its gentle nature. They undergo comprehensive obedience training, are well-socialized in school environments, and are introduced to children. Like all our dogs, ongoing training throughout their working life is essential.
Benefits of Educational Assistance Dogs
Having an Educational Assistance Dog in your school offers numerous benefits, including:
- Improved Attendance and Engagement: Students are more willing to participate in classroom activities.
- Calming Effect: The presence of the dog significantly reduces stress levels, especially for students with behavioral or learning difficulties.
- Enhanced Social Interaction: Students are encouraged to participate and interact within groups, fostering a shared interest.
- Educational Motivation: Students learn about dogs and appropriate behavior around them.
- Supportive Presence: The dog provides comfort without requiring students to speak or make eye contact, easing anxiety.
- Autism Awareness: Promotes acceptance of students with additional needs.
- Inclusivity: Demonstrates the school’s commitment to being an inclusive community.
Role of the Educational Assistance Dog
The Educational Assistance Dog will work alongside designated teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs). Initially, the dog will attend school three days a week, which can be increased to five days once the dog has settled. The dog will have a tailored timetable and may move between classes as needed, depending on whether it is a primary or secondary school.
Handler Training and Responsibilities
Two to three handlers, including the main carer, must be chosen within the school to assist with the dog during the day. All handlers will receive training in positive reinforcement dog handling and will learn to recognize signs of stress in the dog and how to manage it appropriately.
School Responsibilities
The school must fulfill the following requirements:
- Ensure the board of management is fully aware of the application for an Educational Assistance Dog.
- Include the dog under the school’s public liability insurance.
- Provide a designated area on the school grounds for the dog’s needs.
- Ensure a suitable place for the dog to have timeouts/safe spaces.
- Consider students with allergies or fear of dogs.
- Allow designated handlers time off from their regular duties for training.
- Determine who will cover the costs associated with the dog (e.g., food, pet insurance, vet fees).
Applicant/Main Carer Responsibilities
The main carer must meet specific criteria, similar to those for a Buddy Dog:
- The dog must live indoors at all times.
- The dog cannot be left alone for more than three hours.
- An enclosed, dog-proof garden is required.
- The dog must receive exercise appropriate for its size and needs.
The main carer is responsible for the health and welfare of the Educational Assistance Dog, ensuring it is up-to-date with vaccinations and well cared for during and after the school day. A contingency plan should be in place for the dog’s care if it becomes unwell and cannot attend school. The main carer must also hold a permanent position within the school.