Cuddles After a Ruff Day: How Dogs Help Our Mental Health

A fascination for animals starts in the early stages development for most children. It appears that even toddlers are inherently aware of the therapeutic affects animals can provide. Specifically, research has found that our pups lower stress levels and lessen the severity and symptoms of many mental health challenges. 

Dogs are welcome to join for the entire class if they won't distract your student too much! Students without a dog in the home are more than welcome to join with a different pet or bring a picture of their favorite animal.

This course will begin with a dog show-and-tell session, where students can introduce their canine friend and share any quirky things that make their pup special. They'll then learn the history behind dogs becoming part of human families and discuss how they help us. We'll learn what it is about them that is so good for our emotions and how we can make sure our dogs feel the same love they show us.

The class will follow the following outline:

1. Dog show-and-tell
2. History of our friendship with dogs
3. How do they help our mental health?
4. Special dog jobs