Introducing our new Wellbeing Dog
Welcome Gigi
We’re thrilled to announce the arrival of Gigi, our new Wellbeing Dog to Emmaus!
Gigi, a friendly and gentle Australian Cobberdog, will officially join us in Term 2, 2025, based at our South Plympton Campus with occasional visits to Brooklyn Park.
Gigi’s training and integration into school life is a collaborative effort as part of the Dogs Connect program. Our Director of Faith Formation and Wellbeing, Adam Wood, oversees this process, supported by a team of about eight staff members who are also completing Dogs Connect accreditation. Together, they are preparing Gigi to provide valuable support for our students’ wellbeing.
Currently, Gigi is only 10 weeks old and has a lot of growing to do.
Australian Cobberdogs like Gigi are known for their affectionate nature, loyalty, and intelligence, making them ideal for therapeutic and assistance roles. Gigi has a wool coat, which is more hypoallergenic than hair that sheds, helping to reduce allergy concerns for those with sensitivities.
Why a Wellbeing Dog?
Studies increasingly show that well-trained wellbeing dogs have a positive impact in schools and other community settings. Dogs like Gigi can help reduce stress and anxiety, lower heart rates, and contribute to an overall sense of calm and wellbeing. When students are more relaxed, they’re often more receptive to learning. Here are some additional ways Gigi can make a difference:
- School Attendance: Schools that have introduced wellbeing dogs have reported improved attendance rates as students look forward to seeing and interacting with them.
- Communication: Having a dog in school gives students a shared point of interest, which can help build connections and facilitate interactions. Wellbeing dogs are even used in literacy programs, as students may feel more comfortable reading to a dog than teachers or peers.
- Leadership Skills: Caring for a school dog offers students a chance to develop responsibility and leadership skills through tasks like feeding, walking, and caring for Gigi.
- Behaviour and Empathy: Gigi’s presence will help students understand the impact of their behaviour on others, fostering empathy and emotional understanding.
- Supporting Students with Trauma: By providing a calm presence, they help students and communities work through anxiety and trauma alongside existing strategies.
Do You Have Any Questions?
As this is a new initiative, we welcome questions from both parents and students. Your queries will help our team address any concerns as part of their training and make Gigi’s integration as smooth as possible. Some questions you may have:
- How should we approach Gigi?
- Are there options for students with allergies?
- Is it mandatory to interact with the wellbeing dog?
- Will Gigi visit classrooms even if some students are uncomfortable with dogs?
We’re committed to creating a positive experience for everyone and will provide plenty of time and information to help our community adjust to this new program.