Bella the therapy dog visits Thornbeck

Accessing visits facilitated by Bella and Laura has had a number of positive benefits to learners including:

• A reduction in levels of anxiety and stress – therapy dogs offer a soothing presence, support students to manage their emotional wellbeing
• The encouragement of social interaction – therapy dogs create a natural opportunity for interaction, thus promoting community inclusion and the development of social skills
• The promotion of emotional regulation – therapy dogs can support with the management of an array of emotions by offering a calming outlet, improving overall emotional wellbeing

Bella and Laura will continue to access Thornbeck on a fortnightly basis, providing regular opportunities to explore this as a method of regulation.