Dog 

Assistance 

Program

Welcome to our newest staff member

Hi families 

We would like to introduce to the CSPS community, our newest member of staff - Baggins.  Baggins is a certified therapy dog who will be working part time on site as the leader of a Dog Assistance Program.

Baggins and his handler Ms Joannidis have undertaken rigorous training to work together to support students at CSPS.  During his training, Baggins has been positively welcomed.  He has an especially kind heart, calm temperament and loves working with humans.  Supporting students in schools is definitely his calling.

Baggins will primarily work with Year 5 & 6 students but his skills will also span across the school in varying ways.  His work will focus on supporting students in the areas of school engagement, school attendance, self-confidence, responsibility, tolerance, empathy, kindness, respect and much more!  It is important to note that Baggins will only work with students who want to work with him.  The following Embrace Rules will apply across the school.

A little bit about Baggins

Baggins is a 9-year-old male Koolie.  In his younger years, life was not kind which led to him becoming diabetic and blind.  Through much hard work, dedication and devotion, Baggins' sight was partially restored.  He is a client of Animal Diabetes Australia and his diabetes is monitored on a daily basis.

In summary, Baggins is a very special dog.  He is sponsored by Victorian Dog Rescue, has been trained by K9 Therapy Dogs, has been supported by Uniting and he is loved and cared for by Ms Joannidis.

A Dog Assistance Program Policy is found on our website for you to access at any time.

Any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Ms Joannidis  

colettej@cranbournesouth.vic.edu.au who would be more than happy to answer any questions.

We are very lucky to have Baggins on our staff.

Monique Corcoran

PRINCIPAL

Note:  At time of iNewsletter publication, the Herald Sun had visited CSPS on Wednesday 22nd July to organise an article celebrating our new addition.  CSPS will keep you informed when the article is published.