Children welcome four-legged friend into their school

Children at St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School, Carisbrooke, have a new member of their school – an Australian Labradoodle – and the children are said to be delighted.

The puppy – named ‘Cookie’ by the children – has joined the school community as a therapy dog to support the children with their emotional needs.

Headteacher, Maggie Sanderson, said: “The children are absolutely delighted by the arrival of Cookie, he’s created a real buzz around the school.”

“Dogs are well-known for their willingness to provide unconditional love and companionship, and we hope that Cookie can bring these attributes to our children when they are in need of a bit of extra help.”

The school is hugely grateful to Green, Roberts & Butler, the Carisbrooke Vets, who have kindly agreed to look after Cookie’s health needs, and Ability Dogs 4 Young People who are assisting with Cookie’s training as a therapy dog.

Carol Court from charity Ability Dogs 4 Young People said: “We are pleased to be able to support the school with Cookie’s training. Therapy dogs can really boost young people’s well-being, confidence and self-esteem, helping them to reach their potential.” Carol has met with the children sharing her expertise in dog handling.

The school is now collecting milk bottle tops to give to Ability Dogs 4 Young People which enables the charity to raise money through recycling the lids.

 Photo: Emily (Carisbrooke Vet) and Cookie