Dogs Connect 

Who are Dogs Connect? 

Dogs Connect is an organisation that helps introduce wellbeing dogs into settings such as schools, hospitals, aged care and justice communities, aiming to achieve as many mental health benefits as possible. They have introduced wellbeing dogs in over 400 schools all around Australia and all of them have spoken of improved attendance and an openness to learn since their dog joined the community.  

There is increasing evidence demonstrating how a well-trained dog can help in a whole range of settings. Scientific evidence shows that being near a dog can reduce stress and anxiety and decrease the heart rate. For children, animals can help with emotional regulation, social connection and communication. They can help engage students in many curriculum areas by helping them feel less self-conscious than they would be around teachers and peers. 

Dogs Connect measures the impact of all their programs and works closely with a research team to continually reflect on and refine their process.  

Meet Poppy

I’m an Australian cobberdog and was born at Dantapelle Australian Cobberdogs in Murrumba Downs just outside of Brisbane. I flew down to Melbourne when I was eight weeks old and live with Ms Briggs and my furry brothers Fergus, a black curly-coated retriever, and Clawed, the Business Office cat. 

I spent my first year at Girton in 2023, learning how to become a Dogs Connect dog to support our students. I worked closely with Ms Briggs, Dogs Connect and our Senior School Inclusive Education Teacher, Ms Crane, beginning to spend more and more time at school, with some downtime in the Business Office when I needed a break. 

Now in my second year of being a Dogs Connect dog, I spend time at the Hub with the Inclusive Education Team, and at 65 Wattle with the Wellbeing Team. I work three days a week across these locations, and I love going to work because I get lots of tummy rubs from students. All staff who work with me are required to have completed their own training so they can ensure I am able to do my best work with students. 

If you aren’t sure what you need to know, the three key things to remember when you see me are: 

• Say hello to people first before you say hello to me. 
• Give me lots of space when you’re passing by. 
• Keep moving! Please don’t stand and stare at me. 

And, as much as you might be tempted to, please don’t use baby talk with me – I will become much too excited! – Poppy