How Bear and Lulu Helped St Justin’s Students Feel Calm Again
Therapy Dogs in SchoolsReal therapy dog success at a school in Wheelers Hill, Victoria
At St Justin’s Parish Primary School, two gentle dogs named Bear and Lulu are making a big difference. Certified therapy dogs are bringing smiles. They’re helping students feel calm, focused, and safe after a challenging few years.
What started as a small idea turned into something powerful.
✅ 1. Easing Anxiety After Lockdowns
When students returned to school after lockdowns, teachers noticed something wasn’t right.
“The kids were unsettled,” one staff member shared. “They were anxious, frustrated, and found it difficult to get back into routine.”
So, the school ran a simple trial, they brought in a therapy dog named Bear to see if it would help.
“Right away, we saw a change. Bear helped settle the room. The kids relaxed.”
The pilot went so well, the school brought in a second therapy dog: Lulu.
✅ 2. Calmer classrooms; More Focused Students
Bear and Lulu quietly move around the classroom while lessons happen. They don’t need to be the centre of attention, just having them nearby helps.
“My classroom is calmer now,” said one teacher. “The students are more focused and feel at ease.”
The dogs give kids something gentle to focus on. Some even multitask, patting a dog while working on their tasks.
✅ 3. Emotional Support When Students Need It Most
Just like us adults, sometimes kids just need a moment too. Bear and Lulu are there for those moments.
Bear and Lulu are there for those moments.
“Once, I would rather not do coding,” said one student. “Then Bear came and sat with me. It helped.” “When we feel sad, they come up to us and make us feel happy,” another student shared.
These small interactions give students a way to reset, without needing to leave the classroom or feel overwhelmed.
✅ 4. A Positive Ripple Through the Whole School
Staff and parents have felt a positive change, too. “When the dogs come into the staffroom, there’s a real lift in mood,” one teacher said. “The parents have told us their kids come home full of stories about Bear and Lulu,” added another
Bear and Lulu are now a regular part of the St Justin’s community, and the impact is lasting.
What is a therapy dog in school?
Bear and Lulu have shown just how powerful a well-placed therapy dog can be in a school setting.
A therapy dog can
- reduce student anxiety and foster emotional safety if given the proper temperament and care.
- Encourage calmness, engagement, and focus in the classroom.
- During difficult times, offer consolation and a sense of connection.
- Improve employee well-being and fortify school culture
Read more about Therapy Dogs and how they can help
Want to Bring a Therapy Dog to Your School?
If your dog is already a perfect fit, Paws For Support makes it simple to get your school dog certified.
- Nationally recognised and authorised by the government
- Australia-wide virtual or in-person certification (Melbourne)
- Easy to use, reasonably priced, and school-appropriate
- Ideal for educators, chaplains, and wellbeing teams
