Paw pals to help kids reconnect

CHILDREN who are disengaging from learning at school can now access support from a special MacKillop Family Services initiative that’s just expanded into Ballarat.

Facilitators of the Paw Pals therapy dog program and their four-legged friends are set to work with young people across the region, particularly those from traumatic backgrounds, and will seek to help them regain trust and confidence, reengage with education, and regulate their emotions.

“My gorgeous pooch Millie can make a connection where other strategies have failed,” said facilitator Kath Anderson, who works with her therapy poodle.

“We’ve worked with kids who had previously refused to go inside the school building, but after taking part in the program, they will happily take Millie into class with them to show their classmates the commands they have taught her.

“Seeing a child’s confidence grow while they are supported by therapy dogs is inspirational.

“We know there are lots of children in the community who could benefit… and we look forward to working with many more schools and families.”

Paw Pals has received three years of local funding from the Petspiration Foundation, and facilitators have a base at Sebastopol’s St James Parish School.

Principal, Garth Kydd, said St James is all about belonging.

“Paw Pals fits so well with our values of being of service to those who need it and building relationships,” he said.

“In order to do that you’ve got to be connected and have that sense of belonging.

“Our students are spending more and more time disconnected with those that are close to them and school is a safe haven for them. Paw Pals will give those children, who may still find it unsafe, a chance to reconnect.”

The program has been accessed by 650 children and young people in Melbourne and Geelong since 2019.