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Special Needs Therapy Dogs

Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND)

Special Needs Therapy Dogs

At Therapy Dogs Nationwide (TDN), we are proud to support individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), both children and adults.

Comfort, Companionship, and Connection

Our volunteers and their dogs visit schools, care facilities, and homes across the country, providing comfort, companionship, and a unique form of non-judgmental engagement. Many individuals with SEND face challenges with communication, emotional regulation, and anxiety, and our Therapy Dogs offer a calming and reassuring presence that encourages interaction and builds confidence.

A Unique Way to Engage

We see firsthand how individuals with SEND respond more positively to dogs than to toys or even people. The presence of a Therapy Dog can help reduce anxiety, encourage emotional expression, and foster a sense of security. The simple act of stroking a dog or watching its calm behaviour can have profound therapeutic effects, easing stress and promoting relaxation. Through regular visits, our dogs help individuals develop important life skills, such as patience, empathy, and social interaction, all while forming a meaningful emotional connection.

Dedicated Volunteers, Fully Trained Dogs

Our volunteers are dedicated to making a real difference, bringing their temperament-assessed, insured, and trained dogs to those who need them most. Whether it’s in a specialist school, a care home, or one-on-one sessions, we believe in the power of Therapy Dogs to improve emotional well-being and enrich lives.

Supporting SEND Schools Across the UK

SEND Schools – Are you looking to create a calm and engaging environment for students with special educational needs and disabilities? Contact us today to see how a TDN Therapy Dog can provide emotional support and encourage interaction.

Sources

The Effects of Therapy Dogs on Social Participation and Communication in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: PMC

he Role of Therapy Dogs in Reducing Anxiety in Children with Learning Disabilities: Science Direct

How Therapy Dogs Improve Emotional and Behavioural Responses in Children with Special Needs”: Research Gate